New team: Saxo Bank-Tinkoff Bank!

Roman, what was the main reason that you decided to sign with the Saxo Bank-Tinkoff Bank?The team also wanted to sign me years ago but back then I had already signed with the Astana. This time it was different. I had several offers but I decided for Saxo Bank-Tinkoff Bank to find a new motivation in my career. I think that Saxo Bank-Tinkoff Bank was the best choice for meWhy did it take so long time before you signed a deal?I had to think about all the offers for a while in order to make the best decision. In the end, Bjarne Riis was one of the main reasons why I decided for the Saxo Bank-Tinkoff Bank. I think he can help me to be a better rider, I also like the team´s philosophy and everything seems well organized.Have you had a chance to speak with Alberto Contador about the transfer?Yes, we have spoken several times on the phone. I wanted to know what his opinion about me was. He was happy that I will be a part of the team.Did you speak with Bjarne Riis about your goals for the next season and your team role?Just a little. I will definitely ride some races together with Alberto. I expect to help him at the Tour de France and then there will be other races where I will be the leader and will get more space. Personally, I would like to return to the classics where I haven´t taken part in the last two years. I don´t know yet if I will ride another Grand Tour apart from the Tour de France but I´m sure we will work out a program that will suit me.Roman, you will help Alberto at the Tour. This role will be something new for you. You were almost always a leader in the Grand Tour races you have done so far. How do you feel about this role?I have no problems with being a domestique at all . And the word domestique is also a relative term. Just look at Chris Froome in this year´s Tour de France. He was working for Wiggins and rode fantastic, finishing in second place. Not bad Alberto is the best rider in the world and it will be a pleasure for me to work for him. I know that I will get a chance in other races as well.How do you look forward to riding for your new team?A lot. There are great riders on the team and I also know from races that the atmosphere on the team is superb. I will definitely have to improve my English skills. Now I speak with Bjarne mostly in German or Italian.