Sony Ericsson confirms: no team

The Sony Ericsson company has confirmed the news that it will not be sponsoring Giancarlo Ferretti's new cycling team. In a brief statement on its website, Sony Ericsson said, "There have been a number of press reports across Europe speculating that Sony Ericsson will sponsor a cycling team. Sony Ericsson can confirm that these reports are not true and we have no intention to be involved in sponsoring such a team."

Riders such as Gilberto Simoni, Stuart O'Grady, Matt White, Salvatore Commesso and Cristian Moreni will now have to find another team for next year, after the deal vanished.

EDIT; Opps meant to say, press release courtesy of Cyclingnews.

Odd story. Seems like Ferretti was dealing with someone claiming to represent Sony-Ericson but in reality had nothing to do with the company? Not quite a John Wordin type of swindling, more like Ferretti was duped if what's out there is accurate.

My understanding was Ferretti was speaking with someone in Sony Ericsson - Italy. The deal seemed done, but the guy he was talking to never sent it through to the higher ups at headquarters, and they were not interested. I think velonews had this version of the story.

I can't say it's Ferretti's fault really, but it doesn't put him in a good light.

So, who will get the next protour spot then? AG2R or Comunidad Valenciana(Kelme)?

My money is on AG2R, as they have had more high profile signings recently, and it would be tough to keep Mancebo and Moreau out of the big races.

Silas

My understanding was Ferretti was speaking with someone in Sony Ericsson - Italy. The deal seemed done, but the guy he was talking to never sent it through to the higher ups at headquarters, and they were not interested. I think velonews had this version of the story.

I can't say it's Ferretti's fault really, but it doesn't put him in a good light.

So, who will get the next protour spot then? AG2R or Comunidad Valenciana(Kelme)?

My money is on AG2R, as they have had more high profile signings recently, and it would be tough to keep Mancebo and Moreau out of the big races.

Silas

If there is anyone out there can pull something together really quick, it's going to be Ferretti.

I wonder who the original op was referring to when he said Ferretti killing more careers?? Ferretti has had a lot of very highly successful riders under his management and continues to have many successful riders, and he is highly respected as a team manager and DS.