As has long been known, MTN-Qhubeka (Dimension Data in 2016) will no longer be able to count on the services of Gerald Ciolek. The German sprinter has signed a contract with Cult Energy-Stölting, where he will be rejoin compatriots Linus Gerdemann and Fabian Wegmann.

Two years ago Gerald Ciolek enjoyed his moment of glory when he surprisingly won Milan-Sanremo with his African team. The German held off Sagan and Cancellara in a sprint fromt a small group.

After three seasons in South Africa, Ciolek seeks his fortune closer to home. His new team Cult Energy Stölting is a merger between the Danish Cult Energy and the German Team Stölting. Like MTN-Qhubeka, it is a pro continental team.

Sports director Jochen Hahn influenced Ciolek's early carrier and looks forward to be working with him again. He states: "We are sure that we can give Gerald the tools he needs to keep developing his skills and success, and we are happy to add him to the team for the next 2 years".