Scott Bicycles earlier today announced that they will become the new equipment sponsor of Team Columbia, the team that includes top professionals Mark Cavendish, George Hincapie and Kim Kirchen. Columbia will ride the 790-gram Addict frames on the road and the new Plasma2 in individual and team time trials.

“This was a very important decision for Scott and we are proud to join forces with a successful team like Columbia,” said Pascal Ducrot, Vice President of Scott Sports. “The fact that the team is US and European based and includes top level riders from 17 countries around the globe fits our distribution and marketing strategy perfectly. The team works closely with technical sponsors and this allows us to bring new and innovative products not only to athletes but also to consumers. The chemistry between Scott and team manager Bob Stapleton was there from the beginning and we are confident that this step will be beneficial for both of us.”

Team Columbia is owned and operated by High Road Sports Inc., a group founded on the values of clean and fair sport and personal commitment. They have demonstrated a leadership role in regards to anti-doping, initiating a team-based program delivered by ACE (Agency for Cycling Ethics) and actively creating a culture that discourages cheating. The team chooses partners and suppliers who provide the best products, and have chosen Scott based on the tools and technology the brand offers.

Scott previously sponsored Team Saunier Duval but has decided to cooperate with a new team, likely because Ricardo Ricco tested non-negative in the 2008 Tour de France, although Scott did continue its sponsorship of the team for a few months after the team was renamed Team Scott - American Beef because Saunier Duval pulled its sponsorship of the team.

"We are excited about our new partnership with Scott," said Team Columbia owner Bob Stapleton. "We share the same goals in providing our athletes with the best tools and technology available. We are committed to working closely with Scott to develop outstanding products for professional athletes and enthusiasts."

Visit Scott Sports online at http://www.scott-sports.com.