Cycling: Round two in dispute between Sheikh Khalid Bin Ali Al-Thani and Etixx - Quick-Step. After the president of the cycling association in Qatar criticized the Belgian team for alleged lack of discipline at a press conference yesterday, team boss Patrick Lefevere countered today and was surprised at the harsh words from Qatar.
"I have no idea why the sheikh is so upset," Lefevere told Het Nieuwsblad. Khalid Bin Ali Al-Thani had previously complained that Etixx – Quick-Step drivers had been disrespectful in previous years. Among other things, the drivers insisted on changing their shoes before the award ceremony, although they knew that the time was limited due to the live broadcast. "Maybe they should better organize their race in Qatar," is Patrick Lefevere's response to this criticism. "Do you think it's normal for drivers to have to change at the curb after the race? We have asked year after year for a tent that our athletes can have at least some privacy." the team boss continues.
Lefevere also commented on the alleged problems in the team hotel. “Yes, there was a party last year, after all we had won the race. Is that really that bad?” It wouldn't be the first time that different definitions of 'party' have caused irritation in the desert nation - but in recent years it has been football teams that have stayed in Qatar for training camps that have grabbed the headlines. Lefevere also repeated his statements that they would have decided against starting in Doha anyway for scheduling and tactical reasons. "Actually we wanted to start with Kittel, but after his difficult last year that wasn't ideal and we didn't want to send Boonen to the hectic race to Qatar so soon after his skull fracture."
When asked if they would consider starting the Tour of Qatar again in the future, Lefevere kept a low profile. "Wait. We will certainly not spend more time on this than is absolutely necessary.”