Biniam Girmay: Contract Update – Staying Put?

Reported recently by some media as being on the verge of a move to Israel-Premier Tech, Biniam Girmay may not be heading elsewhere at all.

Girmay’s agent Alex Carera has confirmed that things remain up in the air with Girmay’s current team, but that there is a possibility that the 2024 Tour de France green jersey wearer may still race with an Intermarché-branded jersey in 2026 and beyond.

“Until now, we have not decided,” Carera told Velo this week. “We have a clear idea. After my meeting last week in Leuven, in Belgium, with me and Bini, we have clear idea if the new team Intermarché Lotto guarantee the high level equipment, high level teammates, high level staff, normally Biniam can stay.

“But if the level is not one of the best teams in the world, the career of the riders is so short, then we take in consideration also other opportunities.”

Carera put out a social media post last week which got tongues wagging. It appeared to imply that a clear decision had been made, something some interpreted as a move to a new team.

However it seems the clarity obtained was in relation to a potential stay, rather than a definite move.

Naming the suitors

Given that Girmay already has a contract with Intermarché-Wanty until 2028, some will wonder how his future is in question at all.

Carera explained the situation from his point of view, and how a contract with three years left to run may actually be unenforceable.

“Biniam last year signed for four years with Intermarché. But as you know, during the Tour de France, Intermarché announced that will merge with Lotto. Normally the paying agent will be Lotto,” he said.

“What does that mean? The company will continue, but the activity is from the Lotto team, not from Intermarché. And from UCI rules, the riders from Intermarché can leave the team if they want.

“But until now, we are waiting for the official communication from Intermarché.”

He confirmed the identities of those who are interested in signing the 25-year-old from Eritrea.

“Some teams have contacted me in the last two months, they are interested to speak about Bini,” he said.

“You know the names already, Astana, Israel, Jayco, Ineos, UAE. But until now, without any official mail from Intermarché, I cannot move.”

Carera represents many of the top riders in the sport. He also spoke to Velo about Tour de France champion Tadej Pogačar, explaining what happened to cause recent talk of burnout and early retirement, and how the Slovenian may have got his zest for the sport back.