T-Mobile in upheaval

The paper claims that riders of the Bonn-based outfit have fallen out with the two bosses, accusing them of a number of tactical failures throughout the season. Disagreements are said to have taken place since the beginning of the year, culminating in the pair losing a vote of confidence among team members.

Three-time time trial World Champion Michael Rogers complained of a lack of team-tactics for the alpine stages, while T-Mobile were roundly criticised for attacking too early on the first stage in the Pyrenees, leading to team-leader Andreas Klöden losing 1'29" to Floyd Landis.

The communications giant is keen on replacing Ludwig and Kummer with the head of the T-Mobile women's team, Bob Stapleton and former cyclist and current ZDF commentator Rolf Aldag, who has been working as an advisor to the team since last year.

Spokesman Christian Frommert confirmed that changes were on the cards after the sponsor demanded an investigation into the "fundamental structure and personnel" within the team, before going on to speak of a necessary "Klinsman effect" - a revamping of its public image after recent involvement in doping scandals.

However, Frommert denied that the closer co-operation with Aldag and Stapleton meant parting company with Olaf Ludwig. He told Spiegel Online "After we get back from France, we are going to speak about how both [Aldag and Stapleton] can play a bigger role. But that was planned a long time ago. It has nothing to do with a sacking or replacement of Olaf Ludwig."

Despite his podium finish in this year's Tour de France, and the sacking of former team-leader Jan Ullrich, Andreas Klöden is still unsure of his future at T-Mobile.

The 30 year-old, who missed most of the season through injury after a fall in training in March, produced a superb performance in the final time-trial to snatch third place away from Spaniard Carlos Sastre.

He confirmed to Spiegel Online: "My manager Toni Rominger has received three offers, although none of those are from T-Mobile. I'd certainly like to continue riding with my team-mates."

Questioned on his prospects for next year's race, Klöden revealed he had high hopes for himself:

"As long as I come through next spring unscathed, then I certainly believe I can win the Tour in 2007."