Irish rider Nicholas Roche has signed a deal which will take him to Team Sky.
Roche had been riding for Tinkoff Saxo and working for Alberto Contador but has decided to move to the British team and said to the Team Sky website following his move: "It’s a great honour to sign for Team Sky and I have the opportunity to ride with some of the best riders in the world. I feel that I’m still developing as a rider so now’s the perfect time to join Team Sky and to continue my upwards path. I’m confident that under the guidance of Sir Dave Brailsford and the team, I’ll continue to improve."
Team Sky Principal Sir David Brailsford said about Roche's signing: "Nicolas joins us from Tinkoff-Saxo and becomes the second Irish rider in Team Sky. He brings a wealth of experience, having ridden 13 Grand Tours in his career, and that will be invaluable to the team. Nicolas has the perfect character and temperament for us and we expect him to play a key role next season."
Team Sky have also signed British rider Andy Fenn, Czech rider Leopold König, Dutchman Wout Poels and have re-signed Norwegian rider Lars Petter Nordhaug.