Team QUICK STEP is pleased to announce it reached an agreement with German rider Gerald Ciolek for him to be part of the team for the 2011 season, with a further option for the 2012 season.

“Ciolek’s arrival, as well as the return of Chicchi, represent a major point of strength for our team, especially where sprints are concerned – said Team Manager Patrick Lefevere-. And not just that: Ciolek, together with some other new important arrivals, like that of Dutch champion Niki Terpstra, is a fundamental step in enhancing our team for next season in order to be more competitive in the so-called ‘classic’ races”.

Ciolek, born in 1986, has an Under 23 World Championship win in 2006 in Salzburg as well as a stage win at the Vuelta a Espana in 2009 among his career titles.

“It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to ride with team QUICK STEP jersey – said Ciolek-. It is a dream come true for me. I always looked upon this team with admiration and great esteem. I want to thank my current team for all they did for me throughout the years. I am looking forward to starting this new adventure with the team QUICK STEP, where I will be teaming up with my countryman and friend Andreas Stauff. I am very motivated for next season. 2010 was a tough year for me, after my fall at Tour of Qatar I was forced to the sidelines for 10 weeks and this inevitably compromised all of my season, I never managed to be 100% competitive. Besides putting in my effort for sprints, I am ready to be at the team’s service in northern European ‘classic’ races as well. I love those races, they have a unique charm, and I have already had a chance to compete in them. Going back on those routes with the team QUICK STEP jersey is going to be a big emotion for me”.