Sky have confirmed that Gabriel Rasch, known to all as ‘Gabba’, will retire as a rider after the 2014 Classics campaign (ending with Paris-Roubaix) and take up a post as a Sports Director for the team. The 37-year-old Norwegian joined Team Sky for the 2013 season and has played an important role both on and off the bike, helping the team to five victories including Chris Froome’s Tour de Romandie triumph and Edvald Boasson Hagen’s defence of the Tour of Norway.
Speaking of his switch, Gabriel Rasch said: ‘I’d always hoped to become a Sports Director once my riding days had come to a close and this is a big chance for me to do what I’d love to do with a team that I love… It’s great that Team Sky give riders like me a chance to develop and I’d like to thank Sir Dave Brailsford and the management for all their support. I’m looking forward to repaying their trust in me.’
Team Sky Performance Manager, Rod Ellingworth, commented: ‘We recognised early on that Gabba had a lot of the qualities that we look for in a Sports Director. He has an excellent work ethic, great cycling experience, and a calm and considered approach. He knows exactly how the team works and we know he’ll do an excellent job for us. Gabba will join the DS team fresh from the bike which will make all the difference and will help him settle in quickly…’
