Astana on fire
There’s a lot of recent racing to cover in the latest episode of The Cycling Podcast, presented by Richard Moore and Daniel Friebe with Lionel Birnie in his sick bed.
They discuss the astonishing run by Astana, who have dominated the early season, the Tour Colombia 2.1, which showcased the host country’s talent and its passion for the sport, and Team Sky’s hunt for a replacement sponsor. Will the British team continue with a Colombian backer? Reports last week suggested so — but they were perhaps premature.
We also discuss UAE Team Emirates, a team that has under-performed the last couple of seasons but which has made some new signings and had an overhaul of the backroom staff to try and address that. We hear from Jeroen Swart, their new medical director, about the changes and plans for 2019. The Cycling Podcast is supported by Rapha and Science in Sport.
OUR SPONSORS Rapha have launched their limited edition range of flyweight jerseys inspired by cycling's heartlands and new frontiers. Each design features the country's colours on the sleeve. Choose from Italy, France, Norway, USA, Japan and more at rapha.cc.
Science In Sport are offering all listeners 25 per cent off their range of energy bars, drinks and gels at scienceinsport.com Use the code SISCP25 when you reach the check-out.
The Economist also sponsors this episode. For over 170 years, The Economist has delivered trustworthy intelligence that helps people like you choose where to stand on the issues that matter most. All UK-based listeners can get a free print copy of The Economist by texting CYCLING to 78070
FRIENDS OF THE PODCAST
Everyone who has signed up as a Friend of the Podcast for 2019 can download the four-part, four-hour audiobook The Grand Tour Diaries and our first episode on the Dutch Jumbo-Visma's attempts to close the gap to Team Sky now. We will release at least nine more episodes over the course of the year. It costs £15 to become a Friend on our website thecyclingpodcast.com/friends