02/06/2023

Another World Tour door closes in Nairo Quintana's face

Italian cyclist Antonio Tiberi has found a new home at the Bahrain Victorious after reaching an agreement to join the WorldTour team. At just 21 years old, Tiberi has been an up-and-coming figure in the world of cycling , but he too has been known for an incident that captured media attention. This signing frustrates another opportunity for Nairo Quintana to land in a European team.

The Italian racer was involved in an unfortunate accident while testing a rifle. The accidental shot hit the cat of the San Marino Tourism Minister, causing his death. As a result, the Trek-Segafredo team initially suspended Tiberi and subsequently announced his departure at the end of April.

Miguel Ángel López, on him and Nairo Quintana: "I don't know if it's because we are Latinos, but when we Colombians dominate they take advantage of it to sink us"

Despite this unfortunate incident, Bahrain Victorious have decided to give Tiberi a chance, and he is expected to make his team debut at the upcoming Tour of Switzerland, scheduled to run from June 11-18. His arrival in the team could bring a fresh start for the young Italian cyclist.

The Bahraini team also has another talented young cyclist in its ranks: the Colombian Santiago Buitrago. The incorporation of Tiberi could strengthen the presence of promising youngsters in the team and consolidate their future in high-level competitions.

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Rumors with Nairo Quitnana

It should be noted that Bahrain Victorious has been one of the teams that has generated rumors in relation to Nairo Quintana. After the Colombian cyclist announced that he does not plan to retire and is looking for a new team, there was speculation that Bahrain could be an option for him, especially if Spaniard Mikel Landa left the team. This would open the possibility for Quintana to become one of the team leaders.

However, Quintana's WorldTour situation remains an obstacle in his search for a new team after his controversial departure from Arkea Samsic. Although his fate has not yet been confirmed, the Boyacá cyclist continues to evaluate his options and seek an opportunity to compete at a professional level once again.

Meanwhile, WorldTour teams continue to announce significant mid-season moves after the end of the Giro d'Italia. The signing of Antonio Tiberi by Bahrain Victorious is just one of the changes taking place in the world of professional cycling, and fans will be watching how these moves will impact future competitions.