Van Garderen signs undisclosed contract extension with BMC Racing

Tejay van Garderen has extended his contract with BMC Racing and team management says he is set to assume the team captaincy.

“Tejay is the future captain of the BMC Racing Team and he plays a huge role in the organization,” team president Jim Ochowicz said in a release. “He already has a leadership role in the team and will remain a great teammate for Cadel Evans at next year’s Tour de France.”

Van Garderen was the team’s best-placed rider at the Tour de France, finishing fifth overall and winning the best young rider’s jersey in Paris. He joined the American squad in 2012 after his High Road team shuttered the previous season.

“It definitely makes me able to focus on what’s important, now that I know I’m secure for a few more years,” said van Garderen of his extension. “My offseason has been really relaxing and I’ve been able to spend some quality time with my wife, Jessica, and our new puppy, Manzo.”

As is team policy, a spokesperson would not disclose any details of the contract extension. BMC Switzerland earlier this year extended its sponsorship of the team through 2016. BMC Racing has signed a number of riders to three-year contracts, including world champion Philippe Gilbert and former world champion Thor Hushovd, who are both confirmed with the team through 2014.