Pieter Weening is the first reinforcement of Roompot Orange Peloton for 2016. The experienced Dutchman has signed a one-year contract with the Dutch team.

"We are delighted with the arrival of Pieter," team manager Michael Zijlaard said. "He has been one of the best Dutch pros and so I think that cycling fans will be pleased that he will ride in the orange next year. Moreover, Pieter can contribute to the further development of our young riders with his routine."

The 34-year-old Weening is in his 13th  season as a professional. After a start in the training team of Rabobank, he spent 8 consecutive years in the pro team. Since 2012 he has been under contract with Orica-GreenEdge.

"I could stay in Australia and I have had four great years. But I would love to return to my own country. The idea of Rompoot Orange Peloton really appeals to me and it seems cool to be part of a group of young guns from January. Also because they will ride my favorite races in the spring ride and I want to go for them again."

Last spring Pieter Weening the best Dutchman in Liege-Bastogne-Liege with a 14th place. His six professional victories have been taken in big races: a Tour stage in Gerardmer (2005), the final GC in the Tour of Poland, the Giro della Toscana last year and of course two stage victories in the Giro d'Italia (plus the team time trial with Orica-GreenEDGE). Furthermore, the all-rounder is still the last Dutchman to wear the pink jersey in Italy.

"I have known Pieter for many years and know that he is a nice boy to work with. He is obviously an attacker par excellence, with 15 grand tours in his legs. He will certainly be of value to our team," team manager Michael Boogerd said."