Simon Clarke will be free at the end of this season and some rumors announce that the Australian rider will join BMC Racing Team. But according to Cyclingnews, he has not yet signed a contract for next season. He confirmed also that the Australian would like to leave Orica GreenEDGE Cycling Team.

"There’s no agreement at all with BMC. That was an untrue rumour that was going around so it was good to clarify that. We’re in negotiations with various teams and hopefully I can find an appropriate solution sooner rather than later", the rider explained. "I’d be looking at a similarly minded team to GreenEdge. I’m not leaving because I don’t like it here – I’ve really enjoyed the four years I’ve had here. Basically I’m looking for a fresh environment and a fresh start."

His departure is surprising, but the rider added there was no animosity between the rider and his current team. "We definitely spoke with GreenEdge – we didn’t just rule it out immediately. GreenEdge are making quite a few changes for next year. (...) GreenEdge has a long-term project for general classification. As far as I know they’re not so interested in purchasing an instant GC rider. They’re really focused on developing the Yates brothers and the young talent they sourced themselves and really try to grow them into their own GC riders. I think they’re doing a great job with that. We will see the results sooner rather than later, they’re both two super talents and a couple more years time they’ll be doing big things."

The Australian cyclist added what races he would like to compete. "To be honest I’m happy with the races I’ve been doing. I’ve done the Giro this year, I really like focusing on the Ardennes – they’re probably my favourite races. So just to try and improve there and eventually get some results in the Ardennes."