A new chance for Fernando Gaviria: Colombian sprinter seeks revival at Caja Rural

He may have faded somewhat into the background in recent years, but Fernando Gaviria already showed some very impressive performances in his career with his powerful sprint. Not enough for his contract with Movistar to be extended, but still enough to earn him a contract with Caja Rural. That Spanish ProTeam announced on Tuesday the arrival of the 31-year-old Colombian.

“One of the most lauded sprinters in the world will be part of the Caja Rural-Seguros RGA team next season,” the Spanish outfit announced. “The Colombian joins the Spanish team after achieving more than fifty professional victories and shining in the key stage races on the calendar.”

Thus comes an end to his three-year adventure with Movistar. He had moved to that Spanish team in 2023, after four years spent at UAE Team Emirates. He arrived there after a stint at the Quick-Step-team, where he made his first strides at the highest level. So Gaviria has ridden for a considerable number of major teams.

Of course, Caja Rural is on paper a bit of a step back, since the team races at ProTeam level. At that formation he can at least pass on his experience. “With still many races ahead, despite a difficult season, we are confident that he can reach his goals and those of Caja Rural-Seguros RGA in a year full of exciting challenges,” said his new team.

Gaviria was also linked to a move to Unibet Rose Rockets, the team of Bas Tietema. The rumours came from Italy, with the ProTeam having signed among others Dylan Groenewegen, Wout Poels and Victor Lafay this year. It was cited as a possible destination, but in the end nothing came of it.

“What motivated me most to come to Caja Rural-Seguros RGA was the conversation I had with them, in which I felt their great enthusiasm for my arrival,” the Colombian explained his move. “It seemed like a very interesting opportunity and I have confidence that I can do my utmost.”

What does the 31-year-old sprinter want to achieve next year then? “My aim is to work hard, help the team in every possible way and try to secure victories. Participating in a Grand Tour would be special, and in the case of the Vuelta a España it would be truly fantastic to attempt a hat-trick of Grand Tour victories,” Gaviria thus definitely thinks about completing that trilogy.