Michal Kwiatkowski to Team Sky
Michal Kwiatkowski to Team Sky
Etixx-QuickStep boss Patrick Lefevere has already confirmed world champion Michal Kwiatkowski is heading for the door at Etixx-QuickStep, with Team Sky ready to step in.
The Polish ace is a good fit for the British team as they look to continue to strengthen their Classics squad in a bid for all-round success, with Kwiatkowski winning the Amstel Gold Race earlier this year.
And, while the move is likely to shut the door on any Grand Tour ambitions Kwiatkowski harbours, he will provide valuable support in stage races.
Capable of climbing well and also marshaling the troops on the flat, Kwiatkowski is a man who can help Team Sky deliver the year-round success they crave.
While Dave Brailsford is keen to strengthen his squad with overseas talent, the Sky boss isn’t afraid to blood homegrown youngsters either, with young British duo Alex Peters and Tao Geoghegan Hart rumoured to be joining Team Sky’s roster. (Update: Team Sky have since confirmed Peters and Geoghegan Hart are signing as stagiaires until the end of the season, when Peter will then also pen a two-year contract)
RCUK rumour rating: 5/5
Kwiatkowski’s departure from Etixx-QuickStep is guaranteed and the Pole’s agent has confirmed he’s talking to Team Sky. Once the numbers have been wrangled over, expect an official announcement for the move, which will provide Sky with additional firepower both in one-day and stage races.