In order to clarify some misunderstandings reported in various media, Team Astana management representatives today reconfirmed that 2007 and 2009 Tour de France winner Alberto Contador will continue to ride for Team Astana in 2010. Prior to the 2008 season, Contador signed a three-year contract with Team Astana, ensuring that the rider will represent the Kazakh sponsored team for the years 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Rinus Wagtmans, official spokesperson for the Kazakh authorities who own and fund the team, emphasizes that the Kazakh sponsors are excited about the future of Team Astana. “Our sponsors are keen to continue with the team at least till the end of 2013. It is clear that Alberto Contador will be our absolute leader of the team for next season. We are surprised to read that many other teams have reportedly shown their intention to engage our Tour winner when he remains under contract. A transfer is not negotiable and we will honor the signed contract. We look forward to more victories from Alberto in 2010."

Wagtmans added that he has spoken with current Team Astana General Manager Johan Bruyneel about the successful season and the remaining part of it. "Johan has ensured that he, as well as all riders and [the rest of the team] staff are looking forward to the remaining part of the season and [hopefully to] more victories.”