News of the riders’ departure from Aqua Blue Sport comes as a surprise. They had two-year contracts but have left the team after one season; the team's first campaign in the pro cycling peloton. However, injury and a desire to focus on track cycling have been cited by Lars Petter Nordhaug and Leigh Howard.
Lars Petter Nordhaug, Leigh Howard depart Aqua Blue Sport
Two riders from the Aqua Blue Sport Irish cycling team are departing the ProContinental outfit.
Lars Petter Nordhaug (33) and Leigh Howard (28) have departed the time despite having two-year contracts.
Nordhaug has been hit by illness and has decided to retire. Howard is stepping away from European road cycling in favour of the track.
The Australian said his focus was now on the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Both riders were among the inaugural group to sign for Aqua Blue Sport last winter for the squad’s first season.
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All of the riders signed for two years terms meaning both have now opted out for 2018.
Nordhaug said he was departing after what had been a difficult year for him.
“The recurrence of a CMV virus impacted my performance during the season,” he said.
“At 33 years of age I am proud to be able to look back on a long career as a professional cyclist, and to have played some small part in the success of Aqua Blue Sport in its first year.
“After some reflection I have decided that the best course of action for me and for Aqua Blue Sport is to depart the team.
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“I firmly believe in this project and am not willing to risk the consequences of not being able to perform to my best in 2018.
“I’d like to sincerely thank team owner Rick Delaney and all the Aqua Blue Sport backroom team for their support and understanding, and wish my teammates the best for the future.
“I look forward to exploring a number of exciting opportunities for the future, and to cheering on Aqua Blue Sport from afar.”
Howard stressed he was not leaving the sport but rather switching from road to velodrome.
“This has been a difficult decision to make,” he said of ending his time with Aqua Blue Sport.
“However, I feel that at this point of my career I need to put my focus into something I am truly passionate about.
“I’d like to thank Aqua Blue Sport for the support afforded to me in the team’s maiden year.
“I had the chance to be a part of a great group of people and I will always be thankful for that opportunity. I look forward to seeing them grow into a formidable team in the near future.”
Team owner Rick Delaney said of Nordhaug: “It is always frustrating for an athlete when their exit from the sport they love is dictated by factors beyond their control.
“But in this instance Lars Petter has decided to bow out on his terms. He has been a pleasure to work with.
"And on behalf of all the team – riders, management and staff - I take this opportunity to wish him the very best for the future.”
Delaney also wished Howard well with his future plans.
“Leigh’s decision to clearly focus on the ambition of Olympic gold is one that commands respect,” he said.
“I look forward to celebrating his future success on the track. The many strengths that Lars and Leigh brought to Aqua Blue Sport will be missed.
“But we are excited by the passion and potential of the new additions to our roster, and look ahead to 2018 with confidence and anticipation.”
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