Wiggins staying put at Garmin-Slipstream

• Wednesday, 29 July 2009
• Nigel Wynn
• 2 Comments

Bradley Wiggins, Tour de France 2009, stage 19

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Bradley Wiggins is staying with the US-based Garmin-Slipstream team until the end of the 2010 season, and may re-sign with the squad up to 2012.

The confirmation came via Garmin team boss Jonathan Vaughters, who posted a statement on his Twitter micro-blogging site to stop the rumours that have been circulating regarding the British rider's next professional move.

"Brad has a contract to the end of 2010. We are having dinner next week to talk about 2011 and 2012... Just to clear up any confusion," Vaughters posted on Wednesday afternoon.

Wiggins himself had posted on his Twitter feed early on Wednesday to try and dispel rumours of a move to another team and any plans he may have for the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

"A lot of the press reports you read today that I am supposed to have said post-Tour with regards to 2012 etc are all b******ks!" said Wiggins.

"My full future plans will be announced in the coming weeks, everything else is merely rhubarb!"

In an interview with CW directly after the Tour, Wiggins had said "The last three weeks have changed everything for me. Obviously I really need to rethink about the next few years. And realistically, I think I can come back next year and try and get on the podium."

Wiggins has suddenly become hot property after placing fourth overall in the 2009 Tour de France. As well as his traditional strong performances in the time trials, Wiggins fine-tuned his physique to become a force in the mountains too. He was, without a doubt, the revelation of the Tour.

Many had linked Wiggins with the new British-based Sky team, due to form in 2010 and owned/sponsored by the satellite television broadcaster. It seems, however, that he is staying put for now.

Garmin-Slipstream does seem to suit Wiggins perfectly. The Ghent-born, London-raised rider is well known for his style-conscious appearance and reputation for telling it like it is. He is also a highly popular rider in the peloton and among race fans. There is little doubt that the close-knit yet relatively pressure-free environment of the Garmin squad has helped Wiggins' realise his road aspirations. It would be no surprise to see him sign up for several more years.

Rumours have also been rife regarding Wiggins' plans for the 2012 Olympics. A multi-medallist for Great Britain on the track at both the Athens and Beijing Games, several sources had quoted Wiggins as saying that he would not return to the track and would instead ride on the road.

Related links
Bradley Wiggins: Rider Profile
Wiggins reflects on his fantastic fourth in the Tour