Rabobank in business

10-1-2007 | Press Release

Piet van Schijndel, Member of the Executive Board of Rabobank, announced today that Rabobank will continue to contribute approximately €12 million annually to the Rabo cycling teams through 2012. The current sponsorship contract expires at the end of 2008. Van Schijndel said he is delighted that the contract will be renewed: 'We see cycling as a gem that can continue to gain lustre providing that we give our long-term confidence and commitment.'

Van Schijndel also stated that Rabobank does not turn a blind eye to the issues currently facing the cycling sport. 'We are aware of the history of doping within the sport and the considerable discord that exists between the large competition organisers and the international cycling union. We have, however, fortunately seen that the Rabo Cycling Teams have performed an exemplary role in this field of tension. This can help to restore the image of the cycling sport.' Van Schijndel added that measures related to both issues will be included in the sponsorship contract. 

In addition to the role that the cycling sponsorship plays in relations to Rabobank's increasing international ambitions, the impact that the sponsorship has had on the Dutch population and the level of public appreciation for it are vitally important. Approximately 80% of the Dutch population is aware of Rabobank's cycling sponsorship and 85% considers it a fitting combination. What's more, 90% of the local Rabobanks have stated that they would like to continue the cycling sponsorship. 'Considering that the local Rabobanks are positioned the closest to our nine million customers, their enthusiasm was decisive for our decision to renew the contract,' explained Van Schijndel.

The decision was made to renew the contract for a term of four years due to the period of the licences, the ProTour and the Olympic cycle. Rabobank is also announcing at this time that the contract will be renewed in light of the fact that the Rabo Wielerploegen BV organisation currently employs approximately 100 people. This makes it especially important to provide clarity regarding the continuity of the sponsorship relationship. 

Rabobank will continue the sponsorship contract according to its own distinctive Rabobank approach that focuses on both the gamut of the sport and recreational cyclists. The guiding principle will continue to be that the sponsorship should benefit everyone who cycles in the Netherlands.  

For more information, please contact:
Franscé Verdeuzeldonk, Rabobank Nederland Press Information Office, 06-22607187.