Thomas certain sponsor will be found for his team

– Team Sky’s history of success can help them find a new sponsor who will retain core members of the outfit going forward, their Tour de France-winning rider Geraint Thomas has said.

The team face an uncertain future after broadcaster Sky said on Wednesday they would end their association with professional cycling after the 2019 season.

However, Thomas believes that the team, which has won eight Grand Tours since 2012, represented an appealing investment opportunity for potential new backers.

“I’ve got every confidence in the team in getting something else to keep it together,” said Thomas, who won his first Tour title this year.

Thomas signed a three-year contract extension with Sky in September to end speculation that he could seek a leader’s role with another outfit and the Welshman said that he had no regrets in the wake of Sky’s announcement.

“I committed to this team ... it’s been an amazing environment for me. I certainly see them more than my family,” Thomas added.

“We’d love to stick together but individually we’re going to keep focusing on what we do. There’s no point in me or Chris Froome or anyone worrying about sponsors.

“It’d be disappointing if this team was to stop but there’s nothing we can do about it.

“I’ve had a big off-season and I’m motivated to get on my bike and train and have another great year. That’s all we’re thinking about right now.” –