( CNN ) -- World cycling 's governing body , the International Cycling Union ( UCI ) , have expressed their concern at the financial situation surrounding Lance Armstrong 's Astana team . Armstrong ( fourth left ) and his team-mates could be riding for a new sponsor if the team 's money problems continue . The team , which apart from Armstrong has a number of high-profile riders including current Giro d'Italia and Vuelta Espana champion Alberto Contador and top American Levi Leipheimer , is financially supported by a consortium of Kazakh-based companies . However , with the global recession continuing to bite , the Kazakh cycling federation has already been forced to overcome a shortfall in riders ' salaries this year . This comes amid reports that the team 's sponsors are reluctant to commit further , a situation that could lead to the UCI to withdraw Astana 's professional racing licence . UCI president Pat McQuaid will travel to the city of Astana , the Kazakhstan capital , later this month to discuss the matter and try to find a resolution . `` He ( McQuaid ) will take the opportunity to talk about that , because we are concerned , '' Enrico Carpani , the UCI 's chief press officer , told Press Association Sport . Astana are among the starters for this year 's Giro , which begins in Venice on Saturday , but doubts remain whether the team will appear in the same guise for the 2009 Tour de France , which begins in Monaco on July 4 . A team spokesman was adamant the issue can be resolved . Philippe Maertens told Press Association Sport . `` For the moment , there is no problem . If the sponsors pay again , nothing is lost . '' If the sponsors fail to stump up the required revenue , team chief Johann Bruyneel , who mentored Armstrong to all seven of his Tour de France victories , could have a number of options which should see them able to continue , including finding another title sponsor . Cancer survivor Armstrong returned to cycling this year , after a three-year absence , to promote his Livestrong campaign and the battle against the illness . The 37-year-old American is immune to Astana 's financial plight as he does not receive a salary from the team , relying on his long-term sponsors such as Nike , Oakley and Trek . Because of Armstrong 's unique situation within the team there is also the possibility that the American could take over sponsorship himself , to further promote the Lovestrong campaign , or have the necessary contacts to bring in another major sponsor .
The International Cycling Union have expressed concern at Astana 's situation . Lance Armstrong 's British - American team reportedly had financial problems . Kazakh cycling federation been forced to face shortfall in riders ' salaries .