"It’s not something that keeps me up at night” - Raúl García Pierna on Movistar sponsorship future amid uncertainty

The evolving situation around Movistar Team’s sponsorship has dominated cycling news in recent weeks. Telefónica, despite extending its commitment to the structure through 2029, is currently seeking investors with the aim of transferring or selling part or all of its title sponsorship to reduce an outlay valued at 75 million euros.

It is a scenario that has not disturbed the riders. In an interview with MARCA, Raúl García Pierna made it clear before the Spanish National Championships that the issue does not affect his day-to-day training and racing.

Asked about Movistar Team’s position after reports on the future of its main sponsor, García Pierna struck a calm, unequivocal tone: “No, in the end I think these are things that don’t depend on us. Like at Arkéa last year, there’s nothing we can do other than turn the pedals. From what I’ve read and what’s being said within the team, there’s a contract through ’29, so honestly it’s not something that keeps me up at night,” explained the Spanish-born rider.

Movistar also reviewed his feelings ahead of the Spanish road race, assessed his progression since joining the telecom-backed squad, explained why breakaway days have become one of his main weapons, and analysed the team’s outlook for the upcoming Tour de France, shaped by the absences of Enric Mas and Iván Romeo.

“It’s true that, for now, at least for the Tour, it’s not good news that Enric won’t be there because he’s a key piece. But at the Dauphiné half the team was sick and, given the circumstances, I think it wasn’t bad at all. In fact, it was pretty good in the end. The key piece will clearly be Cian (Uijtdebroeks) and then the rest will hunt stages or, above all, aim for a strong time trial. But the lynchpin is Cian, so as long as he’s good I think the rest will fall into place,” he said.

After an impressive showing last season at Arkéa, especially during the Tour de France, the rider believes he is stepping up again this year.

“Yes, throughout this year I’ve been quite a bit better than last year, I think. I don’t know about results—probably yes—and also in terms of sensations. So I think it can be better than last year. We’ll see. For now, Sunday will be tough,” he said.

He also feels his experience has allowed him to approach races with a different mindset.

“I think it’s about knowing the races. Almost every race you go to now, you’ve already done it and you know it. And often, even in races you don’t know, there are repeated sections you’ve ridden elsewhere. I think that’s the main thing, alongside understanding the peloton.

"Above all, having the calm to focus on doing your job—on what depends on you—instead of chasing the result. When you’re young you think more about results and what people will say, and now you think about working, giving everything, and that’s it,” he concluded.