Taiwanese bicycle manufacturer Merida has agreed a deal to become a co-title sponsor of the newly-formed Bahrain Cycling Team.
Under the agreement, terms of which were not disclosed, the outfit will officially be titled Bahrain Merida Pro Cycling Team. Merida will also serve as the team’s equipment provider.
The team will begin competing next year, although it has not yet been confirmed at which level. It is reportedly eyeing a spot on the top-tier UCI WorldTour circuit and is expected to announce the high-profile signing of Italian rider Vincenzo Nibali (pictured) tomorrow (Wednesday).
“The expertise that a distinguished brand such as Merida presents to the world of cycling will contribute significantly towards the Bahrain Cycling Team reaching its ambition to become a globally recognised team,” general manager Brent Copeland said.
Merida currently co-sponsors Italian WorldTour team Lampre-Merida along with pre-laminated steel company Lampre. Copeland has joined the Bahrain Merida team from Lampre-Merida.