Despite every indication that Fernando Alonso has struck an agreement with the two-time world road race champion to join his new FACT (Fernando Alonso Cycling Team), Paolo Bettini has yet to officially confirm their partnership.
However, following his resignation as head coach for the Italian national team, Bettini continues to hint at things to come in 2014 – by saying he will:
"Stay in cycling as part of a "very important, ambitious high profile project, that has an initial duration, with me, of five years and that includes a major investment."
Bettini became the Italian head coach in June 2010, after the passing of Franco Ballerini. However, as of last week, he announced his registration after receiving a new offer in the sport.
"What had just been a contact and a meeting suddenly turned into a concrete offer and so I found myself at a crossroads." Bettini revealed to the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.
"It was a long and difficult decision. I took a week to reflect on things, considering every aspect with my heart and to study the details. Then I called Di Rocco and told him of my decision."
A story broke toward the end of last week, that Bettini had accepted a high profile role with Alonso’s new up-start team, to include a possible start date of January 7. However, Bettini has since refused to confirm the details of any such contract.
"Out of respect for my new partners, I can’t say anything, except that I’ll stay in the world of cycling."
Alonso’s new team advisor, Kiko García, had this to say regarding speculation on Bettini’s appointment.
"The only name that is confirmed in this project is Fernando Alonso.” “Nothing is confirmed right now and I believe that journalists should be prudent.”
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