The Answer...These Days, Astana

First it was to be Slipstream/Chipotle, or maybe Rock Racing.

But definitely not Predictor-Lotto. Predictor-Lotto? No.

Then Slipstream's roster filled. Now its gotta be Rock Racing, right? Nope.

Today came news that American Chris Horner (formerly of Predictor-Lotto) has signed with Astana. Astana? Yes, Astana. The Kazakhstan sponsored Pro Tour team that shot itself in the proverbially foot [or arm in this case] during this year's Tour de France has done more than a simple "nip & tuck" job in revamping their team. Since the team slid out the Tour's back door in disgrace, Astana's management has essentially bought themselves a whole new team [and image].

The 36 year old from Bend, Oregon was originally thought to be headed to Slipstream to bolster an already strong Tour wildcard bid, and then to Rock Racing to lend credibility to the "rock star" upstarts. Instead, Horner joins American Levi Leipheimer and the rest of Discovery sans George Hincapie (T-Mobile) and Jason McCartney (who recently signed with CSC), among others.

In the same breath [and Velonews story], Astana has also signed long time Postal/Discovery stalwart Chechu Rubiera and recent Discovery sensation Vladimir Gusev. Oh, and on a side note, Astana might also be on Trek bicycles next year.

In July, when Johan Bruyneel diffidently stated that the signing of a new sponsor for his Discovery Channel Pro Cycling team was imminent, we probably should not have so quickly dismissed him. Bruyneel's Discovery makeover of Astana by piecemeal may be his best managing job yet. If the team's Pro Tour licensing issues are abated, then Discovery East...er, Astana will be one of the most formidable teams in 2008.

If you want to know the answer to where the greatest Director Sportif resides? These days, that answer should come easily, Astana.