A bike check gone wrong delayed half of the Tinkoff-Saxo squad in Tour of Austria, as the last riders was sent down the ramp at least 15 seconds after the four riders that started on time. “It’s a shame, as we were fired up to deliver a strong effort on the opening day”, says team sports director Nicki Sørensen, who tells that the team is seeking compensation.
 
Tinkoff-Saxo finishes 20th on the opening 5.4km time trial of Tour of Austria as the last team, 27 seconds off the fastest team Katusha. Bike checks controlling measurements were carried out just before the start of each team. According to team sports director Nicki Sørensen, it was obvious that the controllers were unable to work under the tight time frame with teams starting two minutes apart.
 
“We’ve complained to the organizers, as all our riders were on site and present as required. It’s a costly mistake and it’s a shame, as we are here to compete for a top spot in the general classification. But we will have to wait and see what the result of the complaint will be and if we are compensated in any way”, tells Nicki Sørensen and adds about the unfortunate situation.
 
“Teams started two minutes apart, while it’s usually customary to have at least three minutes between teams on a time-trial. One rider from BMC was delayed, so as a result, the controls of our bikes started less than two minutes before the scheduled start. In essence, only Hansen, Chris Anker, Poljanski and Zaugg had their bikes controlled, when the gun fired, while our four other guys, including our GC-captain Kiserlovski, were held up”.
 
What will come out of the somewhat controversial situation is still unsure, as the a verdict is scheduled for Sunday, but Nicki Sørensen underlines that the squad will do its best during the nine day race regardless of the outcome.
 
“The team has put in a lot of effort and preparation to come here to Tour of Austria well prepared and as a serious contender in the race. We will look ahead and do our best as we always do on the stages to come. The guys, no matter what, are in shape and dedicated to the job”.