This story was first published on October 9, 2009. Read our 'Seven transfer flops of 2016' here.
While the transfer merry-go-round remains in full swing and riders switch teams in optimistic bids to improve both salary and prospects, it’s worth remembering that for every Vande Velde to Garmin or Gerrans to Cervélo, there’s a rider at the opposite end of the spectrum. Cyclingnews takes a look back in time at some of the sport's most glorious transfer failures.
Mr Final Paycheck: Maurizo Fondriest, Roslotto to Cofidis, 1997
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Tony Rominger, Lance Armstrong, Igor Astarloa: Cofidis could create a whole team of misfits from the riders they've signed since joining the sport in 1997. However, one figure that stands out from the crop is Maurizo Fondriest. Signed from Roslotto, the Italian, who was by then approaching his 34th birthday, was way past his best.
The 1988 World Champion only rode a handful of races with Cofidis before having contract annulled by mutual consent in 1998, citing recurring back problems. In fact, he had a chiropractor flown in on the eve of the Tour of Flanders just to get him back on the bike in time for the race.
Mr One-hit-wonder: Romāns Vainšteins, Vini Caldirola to Domo Farm Frites, 2001
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