Israel Cycling Academy will step up to WorldTour level next year after buying the licence of the Katusha cycling team.
The move is subject to UCI approval and would involve the
current Katusha licence being extended for three years and effectively becoming
the Israel Cycling Academy team.
It means Dan Martin, who has signed for Israel Cycling
Academy for the next two years, will remain at WorldTour level.
Conor Dunne currently rides for the team though his
contract expires at the end of this year and it is not yet confirm where he
will race next season.
The deal involving the Israeli takeover of the Katusha
licence had been expected. It means it will be in the Tour de France next
season; an event Dan Martin has based his season around in recent years.
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ICA co-owner
Sylvan Adams said: “I have stated for some time that ICA would be in the World
Tour, sooner or later. I am excited that it is happening right away for next
year’s season.
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“We have several new riders, including some from the current Katusha team that will join, and I promise we will make some noise in lots of big races next year. We are just getting started.’’
The team will include riders with contracts at present
from both Israel Cycling Academy and Katusha.
That means Dan Martin and classics rider Nils Politt will
be the leaders of the WorldTour outfit that emerges from what is effectively
part takeover, part amalgamation.
The new Israeli team will use its traditional blue and white kit, provided by Katusha branded apparel under a new sponsorship agreement.
ICA’s co-owner
and founder, Ron Baron, said he was delighted the team was moving up to
WorldTour level.
“I am sure that this step will enhance our core vision to develop Israeli Cycling on the world stage. To see an Israeli rider in the Tour de France next season will be, for me, very satisfying,” he said.
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