According to the Belgian media, Johan Vansummeren is set to follow a move of his fellow countryman Jan Bakelants (Omega Pharma – Quick Step) and join the AG2R-La Mondiale team for the 2015 season. The information hasn’t been confirmed by the French squad, neither by the rider himself, though, and the former Paris-Roubaix champion has only hinted that he remains calm about his future in professional cycling ahead of the World Championships.
“There’s not need to worry about my future,” Vansummeren told Het Nieuwsblad.
“I know for which team I will be riding next year. That’s the most important thing for me.”
The 33-year old Belgian spent five seasons in the Garmin-Sharp outfit, but his place in the squad for the next year become uncertain because of both unsatisfying results and a merger with Cannondale squad, favouring riders with existing contracts with the Italian team.
According to Het Nieuwsblad, American team manager Jonathan Vaughters didn’t rule out that there will be a place for Vansummeren in the new outfit, but the Belgian preferred to take care of his future in advance and AG2R is expected to be his next destination.
Vansummeren’s selection for the nine-man Belgian national team rose many controversies, as despite lacking any results throughout the whole 2014 season he has been chosen over in-form riders like Gianni Meersman (Omega Pharma – Quick Step) or Jasper Stuyven (Trek Factory Racing).
The 33-year old classics specialist revealed, however, that for the first time he will enter the World Championship road race perfectly relaxed, as he is aware of a role he is expected to play in the squad and feels well prepared for it.
“I know my role and hope to perform in the best possible way. I hope to help my team as long as it will be possible and that I will be able to respond and turn some unbalanced situation back to our advantage.”
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