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Louisiana’s Top Doc Not Certified in Family Medicine

Brent Edward
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0
Louisiana’s Top Doc Not Certified in Family Medicine

Key Takeaways:
– Dr. Ralph Abraham is Louisiana’s Surgeon General and described as a family medicine physician.
– He is not listed as board-certified in family medicine.
– Board certification is not required to practice medicine but is considered an extra step.
– Some doctors worry people might think Abraham is certified when he is not.
– Family medicine is a distinct specialty requiring extra training and exams.
– Abraham has stopped the state’s efforts to promote vaccines.
– Other doctors have criticized his stance on vaccines.

Louisiana’s top public health official, Dr. Ralph Abraham, is known as a family medicine physician. But he is not listed as board-certified in this specialty. Let’s break down what this means and why some doctors are concerned.

Who is Dr. Ralph Abraham?
Dr. Abraham is Louisiana’s Surgeon General. He was also a congressman for Louisiana’s 5th District. His biography says he is a practicing family medicine physician in Richland Parish. He studied medicine at LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport. Before becoming a doctor, he practiced veterinary medicine for 10 years.

What’s the Issue with Board Certification?
Board certification is not required for a doctor to practice medicine. It’s an extra step that shows a doctor has met certain standards in their specialty. For family medicine, certification comes from the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Abraham is not listed as board-certified in this group’s records. He also is not registered with the Louisiana Academy of Family Physicians.

Why Does Board Certification Matter?
Some doctors, like Dr. Rick Streiffer, are worried that people might think Dr. Abraham is board-certified when he isn’t. Dr. Streiffer is a professor and expert in family medicine. He says family medicine is a specific field that requires extra training and exams. It’s not just a general term for a family doctor. Streiffer adds that family medicine is a tough field because it covers everything from babies to older adults.

To become board-certified in family medicine, doctors must complete a residency program and pass an exam. They also need to stay updated on medical knowledge. Streiffer says this ensures they meet high standards of care.

What Do Other Doctors Think?
Dr. Vincent Shaw, president of the Louisiana Academy of Family Physicians, says board certification shows a commitment to quality care. He adds that certified doctors must keep learning and stay updated on the latest medical research.

Abraham’s Role in Public Health
Dr. Abraham has made headlines for his decisions on vaccines. He stopped the state’s efforts to promote COVID, flu, and mpox vaccines. He also banned all vaccine promotion events. This has been controversial. Eight medical groups in Louisiana, including the Louisiana Academy of Family Physicians, signed a letter opposing the politicization of vaccines.

Abraham’s Views on Vaccines
Abraham and Deputy Surgeon General Dr. Wyche Coleman have shared misinformation about vaccines. Coleman was a board-certified ophthalmologist but is no longer certified. Abraham also supports Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an anti-vaccine activist who is now President Trump’s health secretary.

Why This Matters
Family medicine is a well-established specialty. The American Board of Family Medicine was created in 1969 to set standards for this field. Certification shows a doctor has met these standards. Some doctors worry that if Dr. Abraham calls himself a family medicine physician without certification, it could confuse the public.

Conclusion
Dr. Ralph Abraham is a key figure in Louisiana’s public health. While he describes himself as a family medicine physician, he is not board-certified in this specialty. Some doctors are concerned this could mislead people. They believe board certification is important for ensuring quality care. Abraham’s stance on vaccines has also sparked debate. As Louisiana’s Surgeon General, his actions and words carry significant weight in shaping the state’s health policies.

Trump’s Economic Polls Worry Republicans

Brent Edward
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Trump’s Economic Polls Worry Republicans

Key Takeaways:
– Only 20% of Americans think the economy is good or excellent now.
– This is the lowest number during Trump’s time in office.
– More people think the economy will get worse, not better.
– These numbers are worse than during Trump’s first term.

Harry Enten from CNN shared some troubling news for Donald Trump. Just over a month into Trump’s second term, Americans are unhappy with the economy. They also don’t think things will improve, and that’s a bad sign for Trump’s approval ratings.

Americans’ Outlook on the Economy

Enten compared the current economy to Trump’s first term. In April 2017, 40% of Americans thought the economy was good or excellent. Fast forward to February 2025, only 20% feel the same way. That’s half the number from 2017.

This 20% is even lower than the best part of Trump’s first term. In February 2020, 63% of Americans said the economy was excellent or good. Today, that number is much smaller. In fact, it’s the lowest it’s been during Trump’s time in office.

The Future Looks Bleak

Things don’t seem promising for the future either. In 2017, 53% of Americans thought the economy was getting better. Now, in 2025, 59% say it’s getting worse. Only 35% believe it will improve.

Enten called this number “much more worrisome” than anything he saw during Trump’s first term, even before COVID-19. It’s concerning because even if the economy isn’t great now, people think it will only get worse.

WhatDoes This Mean for Trump?

These poll numbers are a warning sign for Trump. If people are unhappy with the economy and don’t see hope for the future, it could hurt his approval ratings. Economies are a big part of how people judge presidents.

In a Nutshell

All of this is bad news for Trump. Fewer people think the economy is doing well now, and even more think it will get worse. This could be a sign that Trump’s second term is not starting as strongly as his first one.

Highland Park Shooter’s Trial Begins

Brent Edward
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Highland Park Shooter’s Trial Begins

Key Takeaways:
– Robert Crimo III faces trial for killing seven and injuring 48 at a Fourth of July parade.
– His father, Robert Crimo Jr., was convicted for helping him obtain the gun.
– Crimo has a history of mental illness and erratic behavior.
– The trial highlights issues of gun control and parental responsibility.
– The case could last six weeks, with Crimo facing life without parole.

Trial Starts for Highland Park Shooter

The trial of Robert Crimo III, accused of killing seven and wounding 48 at a 2022 Independence Day parade in Highland Park, Illinois, began Monday. Crimo, 24, faces multiple charges, including murder and attempted murder.

Background of Robert Crimo III

Crimo has a history of mental health issues and erratic behavior. Police visited his home in 2019 after a suicide attempt and a threat to kill his family. Knives were seized but returned after his father claimed them.

The Shooting Details

On July 4, 2022, Crimo allegedly fired into the crowd from a rooftop, using a semi-automatic rifle with three 30-round magazines. Disguised in women’s clothing and makeup, he fled and was caught after an eight-hour chase.

Father’s Role and Conviction

Robert Crimo Jr. helped his son obtain the gun despite knowing his mental health history. He pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges and received 60 days in jail and probation. This case is rare, as parents are seldom held criminally liable for their children’s actions.

Community and Legal Reactions

Highland Park, known for its tranquility and affluent residents, including Michael Jordan, banned assault rifles in 2013. The shooting has pushed for stricter gun laws and accountability for parents.

Trial Expectations

Crimo’s trial is expected to last six weeks. If convicted, he faces life in prison without parole. The case draws attention to mental health, gun control, and parental responsibility.

Broader Implications

The case mirrors the 2021 Michigan school shooting where parents were convicted of involuntary manslaughter. It underscores the debate on gun access for mentally troubled youths.

Conclusion

Robert Crimo III’s trial is a significant case, highlighting critical issues in U.S. society. As the trial progresses, it may set precedents for future cases involving gun violence and parental accountability.

Federal Officials Push Back Against Musk’s Email

Brent Edward
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Federal Officials Push Back Against Musk’s Email

Key Takeaways:
– Federal departments are telling employees to ignore Elon Musk’s email.
– Some departments suggest being brief in responses.
– Few agencies are complying with Musk’s request.
– The White House has not commented yet.

What Happened?

Elon Musk, a well-known businessman, recently sent an email to many federal employees. The email asked them to list what they did the past week and send it to their bosses. Musk even tweeted that not replying would be seen as quitting. But some federal leaders are pushing back, telling employees they don’t have to listen to Musk.

Who Is Pushing Back?

The FBI and the State Department are among those opposed. Kash Patel, the FBI Director, told employees to wait before responding. The State Department said they’d handle the response themselves. Meanwhile, Ed Martin, a U.S. attorney, suggested keeping answers short and promised to protect his team.

Some Are Complying

Not everyone is ignoring Musk. The Secret Service Director told employees to respond as instructed. This shows a split in how different agencies are handling the situation.

What’s Next?

Musk’s move has sparked confusion. Some see it as overstepping, while others follow through. The White House has yet to comment, leaving many questions unanswered. For now, federal workers are caught in the middle, unsure how to proceed.

Conclusion

This situation highlights the limits of Musk’s authority. While some comply, others resist, showing the complexity of federal operations. The lack of a White House response adds to the uncertainty, leaving everyone waiting for further instructions.

Meeus Makes History: First Win of ’25 Season in Algarve

Jonathan Antonio
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Meeus Makes History: First Win of ’25 Season in Algarve

Key Takeaways:

– Jordi Meeus secures his first official win of the 2025 season at Stage 3 of the Volta ao Algarve.
– Meeus’s Stage 1 victory was nullified after the peloton took a wrong turn.
– He triumphed in Tavira, outshining top sprinters like Wout van Aert.
– Meeus credits teamwork and perfect timing for his success.
– He plans to race in Omloop Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne next.

A True Triumph for Jordi Meeus

Excitement was in the air as Jordi Meeus claimed his first official win of the 2025 season at Stage 3 of the Volta ao Algarve. Just 48 hours earlier, Meeus thought he’d won Stage 1, only to find out the race had been called off after most riders took a wrong turn. But in Tavira, he made sure there was no doubt.

The finish in Tavira was slightly uphill, and Meeus, riding for Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, timed his sprint perfectly. He followed Casper van Uden’s early move, then accelerated to cross the line first. “I’m happy there was a real finish line this time,” Meeus said with a smile.

The Finish That Changed Everything

Meeus had Londres on his mind after Stage 1’s confusion. “It was frustrating, but I knew I had the speed,” he explained. Stage 3 proved him right. The slightly uphill finish suited him, and he used the last corner to his advantage.

With a kilometer to go, Meeus was a bit far back but managed to move up. Following Van Uden’s wheel, he timed his sprint impeccably. “It all came down to timing,” he said.

After the race, Meeus made it clear that this was his first official win of the season. Though he could have had two, he’s just glad for the one. “I’m really happy with it,” he added.

Teamwork Pays Off

Meeus’s success wasn’t just his own doing. His team, Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, played a crucial role. The team split their efforts between Meeus and GC contender Primoš Roglič. Meeus praised the teamwork, saying, “The two groups work well together. We stayed in front for Primož until three kilometers to the finish, then the sprinters took over.”

Meeus might not be a frequent winner, but he’s had big victories, like his 2023 Tour de France stage win on the Champs Elysées. This win, however, is a major confidence boost. “It’s an extra motivation,” he admitted.

Looking Ahead

Next up for Meeus is the Omloop Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne, followed by an altitude training camp. His sights are set on the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix. But before that, there’s still Saturday’s Stage 4 in Faro, another likely sprint finish. Meeus might just add another win to his Algarve tally.

The future looks bright for this young sprinter. With his speed, teamwork, and determination, Jordi Meeus is definitely one to watch this season.

Stay tuned for more updates on Jordi Meeus and the Volta ao Algarve!

Adams’ Corruption Trial Delayed: What You Need to Know

Brent Edward
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Adams’ Corruption Trial Delayed: What You Need to Know

Key Takeaways:

– Judge Dale Ho delays Mayor Eric Adams’ corruption trial indefinitely.
– Independent attorney Paul Clement will argue against the DOJ’s request to dismiss charges.
– The case isn’t over yet, despite the DOJ’s motion to drop it.
– Prosecutors resigned, claiming the dismissal was part of a political deal.
– Legal experts praise Judge Ho’s decision as fair and thoughtful.

Judge Dale Ho made a big decision on Friday about Mayor Eric Adams’ corruption trial. The trial has been delayed indefinitely, but it’s not over yet. Instead, Judge Ho appointed Paul Clement, a well-known lawyer, to argue against the Department of Justice’s request to dismiss the charges. Let’s break this down and understand what it means.

What Happened So Far

The DOJ charged Mayor Adams with corruption last year. But things took a surprising turn when President Donald Trump’s administration asked to drop the case. This caused a lot of upset in the Department of Justice. At least seven prosecutors quit because they refused to sign the motion to dismiss the charges.

Some of these prosecutors later spoke out. They accused Emil Bove, the acting Deputy Attorney General, of dropping the charges as part of a deal. They claimed Adams agreed to help Trump with mass immigrant deportations in exchange for the charges being dropped.

Bove asked the court to dismiss the case but left the door open to bring it back later. Judge Ho agreed to the dismissal request but wants more information before making a final decision. That’s where Paul Clement comes in.

Who Is Paul Clement?

Paul Clement is a respected lawyer with a strong background in conservative law. He was appointed by a Republican president as the Solicitor General, which means he has a lot of experience arguing cases in front of the Supreme Court. Judge Ho chose him because he’s seen as impartial and fair.

Clement’s job now is to argue against the DOJ’s motion to dismiss the case. He’ll present his arguments to Judge Ho, who will then decide what happens next.

What Do Legal Experts Say?

Legal experts think Judge Ho made a smart move by appointing Paul Clement. Ryan Goodman, the editor of Just Security, called it “the right thing” because it ensures the case gets a fair hearing.

Ben Kochman, a judicial reporter for the New York Post, wrote that Adams and Trump’s Justice Department want people to think the case is over. But it’s not. Judge Ho is carefully considering the issues.

Mimi Rocah, a former district attorney, praised Judge Ho for getting to the heart of the legal issues. She called Clement’s appointment “very smart and very judicial.”

Kristy Greenberg, a former deputy chief of the SDNY criminal division, said the case is still alive for now. She believes appointing Clement is a positive step and shows the court isn’t just doing what the DOJ wants.

What’s Next?

The case is still ongoing, and Judge Ho is taking his time to make sure everything is handled fairly. Eric Columbus, a former DOJ official, said this shows Judge Ho isn’t rushing to dismiss the charges without good reason. He might even decide to dismiss the case with prejudice, which would mean it can’t be brought back in the future.

Steve Vladeck, a law professor at Georgetown, called Judge Ho’s decision “savvy” because it shows he’s taking the case seriously.

Joshua Erlich, a civil rights lawyer, said Clement is a fighter who cares about winning. If Clement agreed to take this case, he’ll do his best to argue against dismissing the charges.

Why This Matters

This case is important because it shows how politics and the justice system can sometimes clash. The fact that prosecutors resigned and spoke out suggests they believed the DOJ’s decision to drop the charges wasn’t fair.

Judge Ho’s decision to appoint an independent lawyer like Paul Clement ensures the case gets a fair hearing. It’s a way to make sure the justice system isn’t being used for political favors.

Final Thoughts

In short, Mayor Adams’ corruption trial is still up in the air. Judge Ho is taking extra steps to make sure the case is handled fairly, even if it takes more time. The appointment of Paul Clement is a sign that the court isn’t ready to let the case go without a fight.

As Ben Kochman said, the case isn’t over yet. Judge Ho is carefully considering all the arguments, and the outcome could have big implications for both Adams and the justice system. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.

Neilson Powless Battles Back After Pneumonia at Volta ao Algarve

Jonathan Antonio
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Neilson Powless Battles Back After Pneumonia at Volta ao Algarve

Key Takeaways:

– Neilson Powless faced a tough off-season due to pneumonia but is on the mend.
– He competed in the Volta ao Algarve, showing progress but not yet at full strength.
– Powless aims to rebuild his form for upcoming races like Paris-Nice and the Classics.
– He remains optimistic, saying time and consistent training will help him regain his peak performance.

Neilson Powless: The Road to Recovery

Neilson Powless, a top cyclist for EF Education-EasyPost, has had a rollercoaster few months. Just a little over a month ago, he was battling pneumonia, a serious illness that put his training and racing plans on hold. Now, he’s back on the bike, racing in the Volta ao Algarve, and slowly getting back to his best.

A Tough Start to the Season

Powless was on fire at the end of 2024. He won big races like the Gran Piemonte and the Japan Cup, which boosted his confidence for 2025. But things took a turn for the worse in January when he got pneumonia.

“I was feeling super strong in January, setting records in testing,” Powless explained. “I thought I was going to start the season with a bang.”

But pneumonia changed everything. For weeks, he was sick one week and healthy the next. His training was disrupted, and he couldn’t build the fitness he needed.

Racing at Volta ao Algarve

At the Volta ao Algarve, Powless showed signs of his old self. In the second stage, he joined a breakaway group early on, which was a smart move. “I wasn’t going to beat riders like Jonas Vingegaard or Primož Roglič,” he said. “So I was happy to get in front and see what I could do.”

On the final climb of the stage, he finished 10th, which was a good result. But deep down, he knew he wasn’t where he wanted to be. “I didn’t have the legs in the end,” he admitted. “The climbs were tough, and I couldn’t carry speed easily.”

Progress, But Not Yet 100%

By the third stage, Powless had time to reflect on his performance. While he was happy to be back racing, he knew he still had work to do.

“I’m missing some depth,” he said. “I hope the Algarve will help me get back to where I was. I’m feeling good on the bike, but I still get more tired than usual at the end of races.”

Looking Ahead

Powless is staying positive and focused on the road ahead. He knows it will take time to fully recover and rebuild his fitness.

“I think it’s just time,” he said. “My body needs to get used to pushing hard again. I need consistent training, more than just one week at a time.”

His goals are clear. He wants a good finish in the Volta ao Algarve and a strong performance in Paris-Nice. His bigger focus is on the Classics, where he hopes to make a big impact.

Determination and Resilience

Neilson Powless’s story is one of resilience. He went from being at the top of his game to facing a serious setback. Now, he’s fighting his way back, step by step.

“I feel like it’s coming back,” he said. “I’m getting more consistent each day. I just need to get some depth back by the time the Classics roll around.”

Fans can expect to see Powless back to his best soon. He’s determined to make up for lost time and show the cycling world what he’s made of.

Let us know your thoughts on Neilson Powless’s comeback!

Trump Names Pam Bondi as New AG Nominee, Replacing Matt Gaetz

Jonathan Antonio
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Trump Names Pam Bondi as New AG Nominee, Replacing Matt Gaetz

Key Takeaways:

– Pam Bondi is Trump’s new pick for U.S. Attorney General, replacing Matt Gaetz amid misconduct allegations.
– Bondi, a former Florida AG, brings 18 years of prosecutorial experience and strong loyalty to Trump.
– She has been married twice, engaged once, and is currently dating John Wakefield.

Trump’s New AG Nominee: Pam Bondi

In a swift move, Donald Trump has named Pam Bondi as his new nominee for U.S. Attorney General, replacing Matt Gaetz. Gaetz stepped down amid renewed attention to allegations of sexual misconduct, clearing the path for Bondi to step into the role. This change highlights Trump’s strategy to maintain a loyal and experienced team.

Who is Pam Bondi?

Bondi, a seasoned prosecutor, served as Florida’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2019. Her 18 years in the legal arena give her a strong foundation for the role. Beyond her professional credentials, Bondi is a steadfast Trump supporter. She defended him during his first impeachment and backed his claims of election fraud, showcasing her alignment with his policies.

Bondi’s Personal Life

While Bondi’s professional life is well-documented, her personal life is less so. She has been married twice. Her first marriage, to Garret Barnes, lasted just 22 months, ending in 1990. Six years later, she married Scott Fitzgerald, but that union also ended in divorce in 2002.

Bondi was engaged to ophthalmologist Greg Henderson in 2012. Though they planned a grand wedding, it never took place, fueling rumors of a split, which surfaced in 2015.

Current Relationship

Bondi is now dating John Wakefield. The couple shares moments on Instagram, including a recent Buccaneers game. Wakefield first appeared on her social media in 2017 at a Bruno Mars concert. His profile mentions three children, calling them “my 3 monster children,” indicating he’s a father.

Conclusion

Pam Bondi’s nomination as U.S. Attorney General marks a strategic move by Trump to appoint a loyal and experienced figure. While her personal life has seen its share of ups and downs, her current relationship with John Wakefield suggests she’s found stability. This nomination underscores Trump’s focus on loyalty and experience as he builds his administration.

Australia Says China’s “Live Fire” Drill Warned Off Flights Mid-Air

Jonathan Antonio
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Australia Says China’s “Live Fire” Drill Warned Off Flights Mid-Air

Key Takeaways:

– Australia and New Zealand are closely watching Chinese navy vessels spotted last week.
– A “live fire” drill by China caused flights to divert midair.
– Tensions in the region are rising, sparking concerns about safety and diplomacy.

Recent Events: What You Need to Know

Neighbors often keep an eye on each other, especially when things heat up. Recently, Australia and New Zealand noticed something unusual happening near their waters. Chinese navy ships were spotted cruising around, and Australia’s defense forces, along with New Zealand, started monitoring them closely. But what happened next caught everyone off guard.

“Live Fire” Drill Surprise

China announced it was conducting a “live fire” drill. This means they were practicing with real ammunition. These exercises are normal for military training, but the problem arose when nearby flights were suddenly diverted midair. Pilots got warnings about the drills, forcing them to change course to avoid danger. It’s like if you were playing a game and suddenly had to pause because someone needed the field.

Why It Matters

So, why is this a big deal? Well, when a country like China holds military drills near international waters, it can affect many things. Flights, for one, have to be careful not to fly into restricted areas. It’s like when you’re driving and see a “road closed” sign—you take a detour to stay safe. But in this case, the detour was unexpected and could have caused confusion or even panic.

Another concern is the increasing military activity in the region. Australia and New Zealand are keeping a close watch, showing they’re taking this seriously. It’s like if your neighbor started doing something unusual in their yard, and you wanted to make sure everything is okay.

China’s Response

China hasn’t officially commented on the situation, but they’ve made it clear they’re focused on their military exercises. They believe these drills are necessary for their national security. It’s like when you practice a sport to get better—countries practice their defenses to stay strong.

But countries like Australia and New Zealand want to ensure their skies and seas remain safe. They’re worried that without clear communication, these drills could accidentally lead to bigger problems. It’s like playing a game without telling the other players the rules—someone might get hurt.

Australia and New Zealand Step In

Australia’s defense forces, along with New Zealand, are working together to monitor the situation. They’re like referees in a game, making sure everything follows the rules and stays peaceful. By keeping a close eye on the Chinese navy, they hope to prevent any misunderstandings or accidents.

Messenger: This teamwork shows how important it is for countries to communicate and work together, especially in sensitive areas.

What This Means for Flights

For now, flights are being rerouted to avoid the drill area. This means passengers might face delays or longer travel times. It’s frustrating, but safety always comes first. Airlines and pilots are trained to handle such situations, so while it’s inconvenient, it’s better than the alternative.

The Bigger Picture

Tensions in the Asia-Pacific region have been growing, and this incident adds to the strain. Countries are increasingly aware of each other’s military activities, and small missteps could lead to larger conflicts. It’s like when a small argument between friends can escalate if not handled carefully.

Australia and New Zealand’s decision to monitor the situation closely is a sign of their commitment to peace and stability. They’re hoping that by staying informed, they can avoid any potential dangers.

In Summary

China’s “live fire” drill caused flights to divert midair, raising concerns for Australia and New Zealand. Both countries are monitoring the situation closely to ensure safety and stability in the region. While China sees these drills as necessary for their security, other nations worry about the risks of misunderstandings. Clear communication and teamwork will be crucial in preventing any further issues.

This situation reminds us how interconnected the world is. Even something happening halfway across the globe can affect us in unexpected ways. By staying informed and working together, we can hope for a safer and more peaceful future.

Big Changes for Astana Cycling Team in 2025

Jonathan Antonio
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Big Changes for Astana Cycling Team in 2025

In 2025, the Astana cycling team will look very different. A big investment from a Chinese bike company called XDS is changing everything.

Key Takeaways:

– The team will now be called XDS Astana Team.
– Riders will use X-LAB bikes from XDS.
– Mark Cavendish is not part of the new team.
– The team has new riders and staff to improve performance.
– XDS aims to become a global leader in cycling.

The team’s iconic sky blue jersey will stay, but almost everything else is changing. XDS is now part-owner of the team. This means riders will race on X-LAB bikes, and the team’s name will change to XDS Astana Team.

team manager Alexander Vinokourov and sport director Mark Renshaw recently visited Shenzhen, China, for the official announcement. They signed agreements and showed off the new jersey.

The jersey still looks mostly the same, with sky blue as the main color. But there are some new design touches, like colors on the shoulders, and some Kazakhstani sponsors. The racing kit is made by an Italian brand called Biemme.

Why XDS Invested in Astana

XDS wants to become a global leader in cycling. By investing in Astana, the company is using the team to promote its bikes and technology worldwide. The team will benefit from XDS’s advanced engineering and strong financial support.

“This investment is a big step for XDS,” said the team in a statement. “It helps XDS become a key player in international cycling and will help the team achieve even more success in the future.”

XDS has been a frame producer for other brands for a long time but is now expanding globally. This investment is part of their plan to enter international markets.

For XDS, the partnership with Astana is a way to show their ambition to lead the cycling industry. The company is already a leader in China’s bike market and is now ready to go global.

What Happens Next for the Team

The team’s future in the WorldTour is uncertain. The UCI, the governing body of cycling, has made the team’s registration for next season conditional. They need to submit more documents by January 15. But the announcement in Shenzhen suggests these issues will be resolved soon.

To stay competitive, the team has made big changes to its roster. Italian national champion Alberto Bettiol joined the team mid-season. Thirteen other new riders are coming onboard in 2025.

Some of the new riders include Wout Poels, Diego Ulissi, and Sergio Higuita. Aaron Gate, a sprinter from New Zealand, is also joining. However, some Kazakhstani riders have left the team. Michael Mørkøv and Mark Cavendish have retired.

New Faces in the Team Staff

The team has also strengthened its staff. Pete Kennaugh and Alex Dowsett, both former professional cyclists, have joined the team. Dowsett is now the team’s performance engineer, while Kennaugh is a sport director.

Other new additions include Lorenzo Lapage and Dario Cataldo, who will also work as sport directors. The team’s performance group has also grown, with experts like Helmut Dollinger and Morgan Saussine joining.

Vasilis Anastopoulos, who helped Mark Cavendish perform well in recent years, remains as the team’s Head of Performance. Maurizio Mazzoleni is the team’s Sports Manager.

Mark Cavendish’s Role

Mark Cavendish was involved in planning the team’s future and helped bring in Alex Dowsett and Pete Kennaugh. However, he was not at the launch event in Shenzhen. It seems he will not have a role in the XDS Astana Team.

The Road Ahead

The team has invested heavily in new riders and staff to score ranking points in 2025. With XDS’s support, they hope to achieve greater success. But they still face challenges, like securing their place in the WorldTour.

The partnership with XDS is a big step for both the team and the company. It shows XDS’s ambition to become a global cycling leader.

Let’s see how these changes work out for Astana in 2025. One thing is for sure—everything is about to look very different for this team.

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