There will be no Colombian National Team at the 2014 Tour de l’Avenir this year, which takes place in France between August 23 and 30. The federation’s president Ramiro Valencia Cossio took the decision and the decision has shocked the cycling world as the national team have performed so well in the race in the past.

“This year we will not participate,” Valencia Cossio said in an interview with the La Ruta Del Escarabajo blog, where he noted that the federation, trade teams; professional continental team Colombia and continental team 4-72 Colombia, and other stakeholders in the sport were unable to agree on a fair selection process for the team in time for the registration deadline.

“It is one of the principles that the executive committee of the Federation defends,” Valencia Cossio added with regard to creating a fair selection process. “Participation on a national team should follow performance criteria, and not require belonging to a [trade] team, because that would automatically close the door on guys from other teams."

“If the Federation allows a [trade] team to take on the role of the national team, it would open a gap through which any [trade] team could aspire to do the same."

“With a serious federation, the racers will understand that we are treating them all equally.”

The race is for U-23 riders and is organized by ASO, who also organize the Tour de France. The race is seen as a battleground for Tour de France stars of the future, such as the 2010 winner Nairo Quintana.

Colmbia took part last year, although a Spaniard won the race, Ruben Fernandez Andujar, and Colbia won the race overall in 2011 with Esteban Chaves, 2010 with Quintana and in 1985 with Martin Ramirez and 1980 with Alfonso Florez.

This year’s race is very hilly and would suit the Colombian team perfectly as they are known for producing great climbers. Valencia Cossio noted that the Federation are beginning the process of selecting a team for the 2015 race. It is a shame that Colombia will miss out.