As of today, Thursday, August 1st, 2013, Alessandro Petacchi is officially a rider for team OPQS until the end of 2014. AleJet is one of the most victorious and long-lasting riders in the history of bicycle racing, with an impressive more than 160 victories in a career spanning 18 years. Petacchi also holds the enviable record of nine stage wins in the 2004 Giro d’Italia.
Alessandro, how will you feel when you put on the OPQS jersey for the first time?
"It's going to be a lovely moment. In my career I've been lucky enough to experience some extreme thrills. To get back in the game so close to turning 40 with this great team is, however, an incredible feeling. I want to thank the team, starting with Patrick Lefevere and the team's Board who offered me this great possibility."
When will you make your debut with the team?
"I'll wear the jersey for the first time on the Kortrijk criterium on August 8th. Then I'll be on the starting grid on another circuit on the 10th, and after that there's the Eneco Tour — a perfect race to get back into the swing of things after an inactive period. It may take me a while to get back into a competitive rhythm, but I can't wait to get started!"
We can say that as of today the second part of your already important career is getting underway.
"I would say so. I joined this team to take on a different role, to be a team player, especially when it comes to the sprints. The primary objective is to be useful to the team when necessary and to put my experience to the service of the younger riders."
What do you think of team OPQS?
"I haven't had much contact for the moment, but I have to say that the impression I get as an outside observer is that of a very tight knit team with a great staff. You can also tell there is a great team spirit. When the team embraced Matteo Trentin after his victory in the Tour, that is a beautiful example of it."
Good luck Alessandro!
"Thank you, and hello to all the team's fans. I hope I can give you all some satisfaction!"
Want to know more about AleJet? Check out his profile »
