Davide Ballerini’s move from Soudal Quick-Step to the Astana Qazaqstan Team has been the subject of speculation for some time and has now been officially confirmed by his new team. It’s worth noting that the Italian cyclist already had experience with the Kazakh team, led by coach Alexander Vinokourov, in 2019. Ballerini has signed a new one-year contract, extending until the end of 2024.
“I know the team well,” says Ballerini, who will turn 29 on September 21. “There is a solid team where people know how it works. The atmosphere is good, and the team knows how to win. I expect many good things next season, and I’m sure everything will go well for me and the team.”
Paris-Roubaix as a target for 2024
Ballerini reveals that he wants to make his mark in the spring classics. “I have new goals. First of all, I would like to focus on the spring classics, especially Paris-Roubaix,” announces Ballerini.
Team boss Vinokourov knows Ballerini well. He calls him a true professional. “He’s a strong rider for the classics and a team player,” said Vino. “I’m happy that he’s coming back stronger, with even more experience and motivation. He will be one of our leaders in the classics but can also act as a helper and stage hunter in the Grand Tours.”