“It’s not a question about money, it’s about the project" - Albert Philipsen's agent reveals INEOS Grenadiers deal will not happen

The sharks are circling the junior world road race champion, Albert Philipsen after the Dane took victory in Glasgow earlier this year aged just 16. After Jumbo-Visma were reported to have pulled out a few days ago, it now looks as if the INEOS Grenadiers are also out of the race.

“There are three teams in competition for him,” Philipsen's agent, Alex Carera has told GCN. “Ineos and Jumbo are a no now. It’s Bora, Trek and UAE. With Ineos, we must understand what happens after the Rod Ellingworth era. Next week I take a flight from Milan to Copenhagen, I meet the family of Albert and we make a decision."

Read also

Ian Boswell tells problems with INEOS: "I am friends with some riders who in recent years chose not to sign with the team and instead decided to go to Jumbo for much less money"

Often, a talented young prospect will put his career in the hands of the highest bidder. Carera however is keen to stress that the proposed project is much more important to Philipsen than the proposed contract.

“It’s not a question about money, it’s about the project because he’s a multi-disciplinary rider and there are some interesting teams who have given us details on their project but more time is needed," he explains. "It’s about his future, so it’s really important what comes next after 2024.”

One thing for certain though, is Philipsen's plan for 2024. "For sure, in 2024 he stays with his junior team Tscherning Cycling Academy. When he comes back from Egypt he’ll take the final decision for a three-year contract between 2025 and the end of 2027.”

Read also

Mathieu van der Poels's challenge to Jasper Philipsen after running half-marathon: "Another one on training camp next week?”