Here To Stay?

Inside the cover of the latest edition of Road Bike Action Magazine is a two page Rock Racing advertisement with the simple statement, "Here To Stay!"

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for anyone in the Rock Racing organization who wants to have a hand in running it. Unless of course your name is Michael Ball (inset).

Earlier this year, incumbent Director Sportif Frankie Andreu departed when his role in the team was essentially reduced to figurehead status. And now, Le Reone, Mario Cipollini has cut ties with the organization.

Michael Ball's statement to the press, though tactful, seems to leave room for speculation as to Cipo's reasons for leaving.

“From a business perspective and from an overall team standpoint, the relationship between Mario Cipollini and Rock Racing was not advantageous, and would not work long-term. We have terminated his contract and wish him luck in future endeavors.”

(Please note: Mr. Ball is not available for follow-up interviews.)

But anyone, not even remotely close to the situation, can read in-between the proverbial lines. No one should be shocked by this outcome.

In the closing days of, and immediately folowing the conclusion of the Amgen Tour of California, there were already grumblings that the promise of a leadership role made to Cipo were far in excess to what Ball had personally intended. So what looked to be the perfect forum for the 41-year-old veteran of the peloton to make a comeback and perhaps impart his bevy of cycling wisdom upon a younger generation of sprinters has now gone by the wayside.

The story of Michael Ball's rise in the fashion industry is an admirable one; proving once again that a person's will can overcome his or her environment. But it is that same will, or ego, that is hindering Ball's path in the cycling industry. Until Ball realizes that he is creating a similar hole to the one he dug himself out of as a youth, then the longevity of Rock Racing in cycling is stunted at best.