Mark Cavendish's coach stays with Soudal - Quick-Step

Mark Cavendish has a return to his best level in 2021 as he returned to Soudal - Quick-Step, and much was due to the work done with Greek coach Vasilis Anastopoulos. However, despite many attempts to bring him to Astana, the trainer remains with the Belgian team. 

After a series of very hard years, it was a gamble for the Belgian team to sign Cavendish in 2021, who was looking for a final opportunity to race the Tour de France. Having succeeded, he also went on to ride a tremendous Tour which saw him equal the record of Eddy Merckx in terms of victories.

Read also

Chris Froome optimistic upon return to Tour Down Under: "we can hit the ground running with some great results"

In 2022 he was not selected to ride the Grand Boucle as the team backed up Fabio Jakobsen, and Cavendish was left looking for another team. B&B Hotels-KTM seemed to be the perfect option, however the team's collapse meant he had to look elsewhere.

Luckily for the Manxman, Astana Qazaqstan Team terminated Miguel Ángel López' contract and the team had a free spot and budget, and guaranteed Tour de France presence. It is believed that the two parties have already agreed on a deal, but are currently arranging individual sponsors and details. Anastopoulos was one of Cavendish's biggest demands, but it seems as if the move won't take place.

Read also

Profiles & Route Tour Down Under 2023

Final startlist Tour Down Under 2023 with Froome, Bilbao, Matthews, S.Yates, Hindley, Hayter and Ewan