Former Rusvelo rider José Manuel Díaz signed by Burgos-BH, hopes to "be a protagonist in La Vuelta"

Following the removal of it's UCI license, former Gazprom - Rusvelo riders are finding a new home. Albeit just a few until now, the list as increased as Spanish climber José Manuel Díaz has signed a contract with Burgos-BH.

"I have never lost hope and I have continued training with the hope of returning to compete as soon as possible. I am very happy to have received the opportunity to ride with Burgos BH. It is a team in which I know everyone, and that's important to enter in the middle of the season," Díaz said in a press release. The 27-year old managed to race early in the season but as soon as Russia's invasion of Ukraine led to sanctions within the sport, he found himself without contract.

Díaz was the winner of the 2021 Tour of Turkey, after taking the win in the queen stage. He has developed as a climber within the peloton, having ridden in teams such as the Israel Cycling Academy, Team Voralberg Santic and NIPPO before joining the Russian team.

Despite not yet having initiated his calendar for the remaining season, he's already got goals in mind: "I also think we have an exceptional calendar that few teams can provide. I hope to win a race and be a protagonist in La Vuelta."