Alonso misses UCI deadline

Aigle -  Formula One driver Fernando Alonso has missed his chance to register a professional cycling team for the 2015 season.

The International Cycling Union published a list of teams who submitted a registration file for a WorldTour license to compete in cycling's top two levels next year.

A prospective team back by Alonso, a two-time F1 champion, was not among them despite prolonged talks over his entry into the sport.

"Over the last few months the UCI has had very cordial and productive discussions with Fernando Alonso and his representatives concerning a possible team for 2015," the UCI said.

"Whilst this has not led to a team for 2015, we thank Fernando Alonso for his interest and engagement and look forward to continuing discussions with him and/or his advisers if they wish to pursue that interest further. Our door will always be open to all those who want to invest in the future of our sport."

The Ferrari driver announced last month that he paired up with sport investment managers NOVO, a day before the 1 October deadline, to submit at least 10 signed rider contracts in order to apply to become a UCI ProTeam.