The team published a press release stating: “The bank was and is a loyal and good thinking cycling sponsor. Not only regarding developments within our own team, but Rabobank [has also taken] international women’s cycling to a higher level.”

The end of this sponsorship does not spell the end of the team. General manager Eric van den Boom has said:”We will do our utmost to ensure continuity of this great team. We have potential sponsors [and] also have something to offer with a wonderful selection and a great organization.

“Of course it’s a pity if such a sponsor disappears, but we have to respect the decision and [are grateful] for all that Rabobank has done and still does. Our sponsor has not only pushed up the process within our team and [given] our riders the opportunity to develop, but Rabobank is also at the base of the big developments that the international women’s cycling has undergone in recent years. It is a stimulating sponsor for the entire cycling world. ”

With many team members, including Vos herself, now gearing up for Rio, Rabo Liv hope to offer their loyal sponsor a ‘proper farewell’ that will no doubt help them in the search for new sponsors in 2017.

Teams are constantly evolving as partners and sponsors move in and on – as is demonstrated by the evolution of the Team Time Trial specialists Velocio-SRAM, whose roster remains much the same as the riders re-appear under the umbrella of Canyon//SRAM.

We wish the team all the best in seeking out a new sponsor!