Kloden, Rast and Popovych to Radio Shack

When we reported Wednesday about the release of Johan Bruyneel from his contract with Astana, we wondered if he had secured the release of Andreas Kloden, Gregory Rast, Yaroslav Popovych and Haimar Zubeldia from the team as well.

It seems today that at least three of those riders have been cleared to transfer to Radio Shack Cycling. Kloden, Rast and Popovych have now been confirmed for the team.

For now, it looks like Zubeldia will be staying at Astana to play the role of lieutenant for Alberto Contador. The mass exodus of riders from Astana to Radio Shack gives Contador an unparalleled opportunity to build a team around himself that can get him back on the podium in the 2010 Tour de France.

Both teams now have their 2010 structure in place and will be able to finalize their applications for Pro Tour status.

Tags: 2010 tour de france, alberto contador, Andreas Kloden, astana, gregory rast, johan bruyneel, radio shack, radio shack cycling, tour de france 2009, yaroslav popovych