The first important signing for the group of young talented riders in the TJ Sport roster has been announced. Edward Ravasi will turn pro in 2017 joining the first Chinese World Tour team  which is currently known as Lampre-Merida. The 22-year-old Italian rider signed a two-year deal.

The runner-up in the Tour de l'Avenir and winner of one stage in the Giro della Valle d'Aosta also had the feeling of racing in the pro ranks as stagiaire in Team LAMPRE-MERIDA in 2015 and 2016. His climbing skills made him a precious element for the young line of talented riders which will enrich the TJ Sport roster.

Ravasi commented: "I did not hesitate to commit to this new project, since the idea of turning pro in a team with such interesting ambitions fascinated me a lot.

"I already had experiences in the group which is managed by Saronni and I learnt a lot and I appreciated the professionalism and the competence of all the team's members. The races I took part in as trainee, in addition to this year which I spent in the Under 23 category, contributed to my improvement as a rider and now I'm ready to became a pro rider. 

"I thank Team Colpack for the years we had together. Now its' time to focus my attention on the pro world, to learn as much as possible from my new team mates and the new staff members, with the goal of improving my skills and of achieving results which could pay back the trust which has been given to me."