Promising Aussie cyclist Rohan Dennis signs with BMC

Rohan Dennis

The time-trial specialist, who finished second in the men's road time trial in Glasgow on Thursday, is expected to represent BMC in the Vuelta a Espana, which begins on August 23, after ending his year-and-a-half stint with Garmin-Sharp.

Both professional cycling teams had to sign off on the transfer, allowing Dennis to join up with former director Allan Peiper at BMC.

Garmin-Sharp CEO Jonathan Vaughters hopes the agreement between the two American teams might lead to a more fluid transfer system in cycling.

"We understood his desire to work again with his former director Allan Peiper, when he was given the opportunity to do so in 2015. Rather than prolong the inevitable, we came up with a rare transfer solution that works best for Rohan and both teams," Vaughters said.

"We view this move as not only a good step for the athlete and teams but as major progress in the way the sport of cycling handles rider transfers. We wish Rohan luck in his new team."

Dennis was not part of Garmin-Sharp's squads at the Tour de France or Giro d'Italia this year, although he did finish second overall at the Tour of California and the Circuit de la Sarthe.

The Adelaide-born cyclist was thrilled with Garmin-Sharp's willingness to release him from his contract early.

Dennis believes working with BMC and Peiper will give him the best opportunity to reach his goals.

"I would also like to start winning time trials in Europe and hopefully get on the podium for a tour in Europe, not just for a stage or a time trial," Dennis said.

"To get a good overall position at a stage race is a huge goal of mine."

BMC general manager Jim Ochowicz revealed he expects Dennis to make an impact as soon as possible.

"This vastly improves our ability to be competitive in races that have prologues and time trials," Ochowicz said.

"Rohan will also play a leadership role in some one-day races and one-week stage races that fit his profile.

"We expect him to a big asset in grand tours and one-day races, too, where he will have a working role."

Dennis claimed silver at the 2014 Commonwealth Games behind England's Alex Dowsett (Movistar) and ahead of Wales' Geraint Thomas (Team Sky).

Author(s)