Mark Cavendish has signed with the Bahrain Merida cycling team ahead of the 2020 season.

The move has been rumoured for some time now after it became apparent that the Manx Missile would be leaving Team Dimension Data at the end of the current campaign.

With 30 Tour de France stage wins to his name, the former world champion is widely regarded as the finest sprinter in the history of cycling.

Speaking after the move was confirmed on Friday, Cav commented: ’Joining this team is the fulfilment of a long-held ambition for me and is super exciting and motivating. You could even say a dream come true.

’Having worked closely with McLaren in the past, and seen the benefits of their technology and processes, this was an opportunity I jumped at. My relationship with Rod (Ellingworth) goes way back and he’s been instrumental in helping me develop as a rider and a person.

’I can’t wait to join my new teammates and do everything I can to help us achieve the successes I know will come.’

More in Tuesday’s Isle of Man Examiner.