February 11, 2009 – The UCI Licence Commission granted “wild card” status to 13 teams today, valid for a period of one year. Teams with a “wild card” label are entitled to be invited to compete in UCI ProTour races. “Wild card” labels are given only to teams that fulfil strict quality criteria on a number of levels: sporting (history of strong performances by team and riders), legal (observance of the rules), administrative (rigorous management and transparency) and ethical (especially anti-doping management and procedures).

Teams with a “wild card” label are obliged to participate in the biological passport programme (which includes making a financial contribution and agreeing to provide athletes’ whereabouts).

The “wild card” label was introduced in 2008 in response to requests made by organisers, teams and riders, who, along with the UCI, wanted all participants in races on the UCI ProTour calendar to be held to the same obligations, particularly from an ethical standpoint, with a view to guaranteeing equality of treatment for all teams.

– Vorarlberg–Corratec (AUT)
– Landbouwkrediet–Colnago (BEL)
– Topsport Vlaanderen–Mercator (BEL)
– Andalucia–Cajasur (ESP)
– Contentpolis–AMPO (ESP)
– Barloworld (GBR)
– Ceramica Flaminia–Bossini Docce (IRL)
– ISD (ITA)
– Skil–Shimano (NED)
– Vacansoleil Pro Cycling Team (NED)
– Cervelo Test Team (SUI)
– BMC Racing Team (USA)
– Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni–Androni Giocattoli (VEN)