Team LottoNL-Jumbo extended its contract with Italian Enrico Battaglin, who is working to help Steven Kruijswijk win the Giro d’Italia. The team management, satisfied with his efforts so far, re-signed him through 2018.
 
The 26-year-old has yet to win, but played an important role in the Dutch WorldTour team. With his substantial efforts in key moments, he earned respect within the team.
 
"I am proud that I can continue to ride for this team," said Battaglin. "It took some time getting settled in and adapting to the Dutch culture, but this team is great for me. In recent months, I worked hard and in crucial moments, I was there for the team’s leaders. I feel great doing it and I’m proud to be working for Steven in the pink jersey in my home race, the Giro d’Italia. It says it all to be rewarded with a two-year agreement. I hope to ride the Vuelta a España later this year and to have a chance to go for a stage win in the Vuelta."
 
Technical Director Nico Verhoeven praised the performance of Battaglin, who was contracted to strengthen the team. Battaglin showed his skills in the 18th stage of the Giro yesterday, when he pulled over the Pramartino climb for Kruijswijk.
 
"We are pleased with this two-year extension of Enrico," said Verhoeven. "We contracted him for the Giro and as a specialist for the short, hard uphill finishes. He is a puncher, an explosive rider. Soon after he joined the team, he dedicated himself to learning Dutch and adapted. He performed very well in the first part of the season. Also in this Giro, he protected Steven Kruijswijk in the hard Italian finals."