Czech Republic champion Roman Kreuziger will ride for ORICA-BikeExchange across the next two seasons in what sports directorMatt White has described as a ‘game-changing signing’.

The 30-year-old joins the Australian outfit from Tinkoff, adding valuable experience for the outfit’s Grand Tour general classification ambitions going forward.

ORICA-BikeExchange has enjoyed a breakout season in the first two Grand Tours of 2016, claiming second overall with Esteban Chaves at the Giro d’Italia and fourth overall and the best young rider jersey at the Tour de France with Adam Yates.

Having helped the likes of Alberto Contador to his 2015 Giro d’Italia title, Kreuziger, who finished 10th himself at the recent Tour de France, is ready to apply himself to the promising young stars of ORICA-BikeExchange.

“ORICA-BikeExchange was an easy choice for me when I started to consider my next team and my future as a rider,” Kreuziger said. “I really admire the ambitions they have going onwards, and I want to fully apply myself to help their young riders go for the ultimate success in the Grand Tours.

“I think I’ll be able to fulfill that role both on and off the bike and at the same time try and go for a win myself in one-week races and some of the Classics where we will have several cards to play.

“I’m very thankful for being able to join one of the most promising and well respected teams in the peloton where I will also be part of what looks to be a fun environment to work in.”

Thrilled with the new addition, White is confident Kreuziger will make a significant positive impact for ORICA-BikeExchange’s ambitions in 2017 and 2018.

“Roman is a real game-changing signing for us,” White said. “He is not only one of the classiest and strongest riders at WorldTour level, but he also brings a wealth of experience having worked for the best GC riders in the world.

“He will be one of the riders who can make the difference for our young riders at the Tour de France in the attempt to go for the podium.

“And at the same time he’s proved that he can win himself in both the Classics and other WorldTour stage races.

“We are rapidly developing into a team with real depth throughout the calendar, including in all three Grand Tours. Roman's inclusion in our roster will be key in the years to come.”

Roman Kreuziger
Age: 30
From: Moravská Třebová, Czech Republic
Turned Professional:  2006

Major results:

- 1st 2016 National Championships Czech Republic - Road Race
- 10th 2016 Tour de France – General Classification
- 1st 2013 Amstel Gold Race
- 5th 2013 Tour de France – General Classification
- 1st 2012 Giro d’Italia – Stage 18
- 1st 2011 Giro d’Italia – Youth Classification
- 1st 2009 Tour de Romandie – General Classification
- 1st 2009 Clasica Ciclista San Sebastian
- 1st 2008 Tour de Suisse – General Classification