Alexandr Vinokurov didn't hesitate to offer Mark Cavendish new contract: "I believe that a true champion should not end his career this way"

It's been a speculation for quite some time now that Mark Cavendish would call off his retirement and renew with Astana Qazaqstan for one more season, one more attempt to celebrate at Tour de France, one more chance to write history of the Grande Boucle.

"There is no secret that the Tour de France and a stage win there was the main goal for Mark. And at Stage Seven he was very close to breaking his historical record. However, a heavy crash a day later crossed out all the plans of both the rider and the team. I believe that a true champion should not end his career this way," said team manager Alexandr Vinokurov,

"So, I asked Mark if in a few years he would regret that he didn’t try again, and, in turn, suggested to reconsider his decision, to stay for another season, and still to try to win a stage in the Tour de France. I think Mark thought about it seriously; it’s not easy to reconsider the decision already made, but in the end Mark agreed, and he will spend 2024 as a rider of Astana Qazaqstan Team."

"While this season Mark’s arrival in the team was quite unexpected, then for the next year we are preparing thoroughly, seriously reviewing the squad, strengthening the sprint direction, making personnel changes. It won’t be easy to better the record he shares with Eddie Merckx, it would be a historic achievement, but we have a chance, and we have to use it. As for the plans after 2024, certain discussions are underway, and the team is interested in continuing cooperation with Mark. But, of course, first of all our thoughts are about the upcoming season."