• Samara, Russia
• Age: 29
• Professional Since 2005

Vladimir Efimkin, 29, Russia. A 2008 Tour de France stage winner and the leader of the 2007 Vuelta a Espana for four stages. Vladimir joins his twin bother Aleksandr on Team Type 1 creating a powerful climbing tandem and bringing extensive experience to the team.

“Vladimir is an exceptional addition and brings huge experience to our team. He has been on the podium at the Tour de France, the Tour of Spain and the Tour de Suisse, and he won the Volta a Portugal in 2005. He is a climbing specialist who will provide powerful quality in stage races,” Director Sportif, Vassili Davidenko said.