Team NetApp-Endura, part-founded in Scotland, have been awarded a place at the 2014 Tour de France after organisers ASO announced their wildcard selections for this year’s race.
Endura Racing was born as a ‘Scottish club team’ in the words of former general manager Brian Smith, and their selection also means British clothing brand Endura will be kitting out two teams in cycling’s biggest race having already been signed as suppliers to world number one team Movistar.
And though the team is now based in Germany after merging with Team NetApp, their selection could mean up to three more Brits will be on the start line in Leeds for the Grand Depart on Saturday July 5.
Erick Rowsell, brother of team pursuit golden girl Joanna, St.Helens-born Jonathan McEvoy and Yorkshireman Scott Thwaites could all now join the likes of Mark Cavendish, Chris Froome and Sir Bradley Wiggins for the 101st Tour.
Team manager Ralph Denk said: “A dream comes true, we have worked towards this news since the first day of the team’s founding.
“That our wish has now become reality is overwhelming, and will put the whole team into a euphoric mood. We could not have hoped for better news shortly before our season opening.”
Swiss team IAM Cycling and French duo Cofidis and Bretagne-Seche Environnement have also been awarded Tour wildcards by ASO, joining the 18 WorldTour teams to complete the 22-team line-up.
Irishman Sam Bennett is also among those now vying for a spot in NetApp-Endura’s Tour squad. The Tour of Britain stage winner signed for the German team from An Post-Sean Kelly at the start of the season and will kick off his campaign at the Tour of Qatar and Tour of Oman.
Czech rider Leopold Konig, who won stage eight of last year’s Vuelta a Espana on his way to a ninth place finish overall, will be another rider desperate for a start at the Tour.
Denk added: “We will certainly reciprocate the great trust that is being put in us with this invitation with a very committed appearance.
“We can gear the entire first half of the season towards this big event and start in Leeds in top form with the best riders.”
