While news of Deutsche Telekom’s decision to withdraw its support fromits cycling program was disappointing, it was far from unexpected, saysT-Mobile rider Michael Barry.

Barry told VeloNews that he and his teammates formally learnedof the decision just prior to the release of the news to the public thisweek, but had been prepared for the possibility since May, when time trialspecialist Sergei Honchar was suspended for violating the team’s own internaldoping policies. Honchar was subsequently fired “for violations of theteam code of conduct.”

“When Honchar was suspended, the situation seemed precarious,” Barrysaid. “During the Tour most of us were prepared for the worst when Patrik(Sinkewitz) tested positive. So, yes, in many ways I was prepared.”

During this summer’s Tour de France, the team learned that the Germanhad tested positive for testosterone in the weeks prior to the three-weekrace. It was only the latest in a succession of revelations involving theteam that began on the eve of the 2006 Tour, when authorities allegedthat several T-Mobile riders, including Tour favorites Jan Ullrich andÓscar Sevilla, were connected with Spain’s Operación Puertoinvestigation. Those charges led to a complete shake-up at the team,with American telecommunications entrepreneur Bob Stapleton taking overas manager.

Sinkewitz waived his right to a B-sample test, admitted guilt and hassince cooperated with authorities. None of Sinkewitz's testimony involved the reorganized T-Mobilesquad, but Barry said the case proved to be a tipping point for the team’scorporate sponsor.

“I am disappointed that (Deutsche Telekom has) left the sport, afterthey made such a big investment towards positive change and a vision,”Barry said. “Thankfully, we still have other sponsors and individuals incycling that are committed to this and will hopefully stick it out untilthe sport is again respected by the public. In my opinion, the ‘08 teamis better than last year's on several levels and the staff and managementhave worked very hard toward building a solid, reputable, competent team.It is sad the sponsor left us when we are just about to reach our objectives.”

Stapleton, whose personal fortunes received a big boost when he soldhis communications company, VoiceStream Wireless, to Deutsche Telekom in2000, has assembled a group of private investors to ensure continued operationof the team under the banner of TeamHigh Road.

“The team will continue with the same goals, roster and vision throughthe next season,” Barry said. “Bob is committed to making the team thebest in the world, to cleaning up the sport and to moving it forward — thesport should be grateful that he is involved and is a passionate, persistentand patient person.

Barry, who is now in Spain with his family and readying for the team’sfirst training camp of the 2008 season, said he’s spoken with several ofhis teammates who also “have faith in the team management and trust inthem as they have always been up front, honest, and respectful of us.”