GreenEDGE cycling secures long-term title sponsor

Mitchelton-Scott will become 'Team Manuela Fundación' when racing resumes this season, the sponsorship a 'long-term' agreement for 2021 and beyond.

Team Manuela Fundación has their kit design ready to go, but there are disagreements about the scope of the arrangement Source: GreenEDGE Cycling

The Australian registered team has secured long-term funding from the Manuela Fundación for the remainder of the 2020 season and beyond. 

A Granada based not-for-profit charity, the Manuela Fundación will focus on social work when it is fully launched in October in a bid to 'help create a more supportive world.'

Funded by Francisco Huertas and his wife Maria Angustias Gonzalez, the charity will initially focus on Spain. 

The welcome news comes after the team, largely backed by Australian businessman Gerry Ryan, cut rider and staff wages significantly in a bid to survive through the economic situation caused by the coronavirus crisis. 

Ryan, owner of Mitchelton Wineries and Jayco Caravans, is also in the entertainment industry, all sectors significantly hit by the global pandemic.

“After an unsettling and uncertain period, particularly in recent months," Ryan said in a team statement. "We are thrilled to have the support of Mr Francisco Huertas and the Manuela Fundación to ensure our future in 2021 and beyond."

“We have always believed in our product and values as a team for perspective partners, but the significance of this long-term deal is not lost on us."

"Especially considering the recent hardships of not only the cycling world and sports industry, but the wider world’s health and economic climate.

“As an organisation, we are moved by the story of the Manuela Fundación and are looking forward to working with such a generous project and doing our part to contribute to their vision of helping to create a more supportive world.”

Huertas said it was 'an honour to reach this agreement.' 

“We want to thank Gerry Ryan for all of his work and contribution so far," Huertas added. "Which has taken the team to its best. Now we will continue to boost this legacy and give great joy to the fans of this sport.”