South African Morne van Niekerk will make his debut for the French-based St Michel-Auber93 team after being selected for the first races of the season.
The 23-year-old will line up for the Grand Prix d’Ouverture La Marseillaise, Étoile de Bessèges and Tour du Haut Var next month.
“I’m really excited to kick off my first pro season. I’ve worked hard during base season and I’m looking forward to putting that to the test.”
South African Morne van Niekerk, who recently joined the French-based St Michel-Auber93 team, has been selected for the first few races of the season. Photo: Supplied
He said they had a strong set-up at St Michel-Auber93 and the riders had achieved great things in their careers.
“To be in the presence of these guys is really cool. There is so much experience in this team, with great riders and directors.
“I hope to learn a lot from them, on and off the bike,” said Van Niekerk.
His teammates are Nicolas Baldo, Romain Feillu, Tony Hurel, Kévin Le Cunff, Anthony Maldonado, Flavien Maurelet, Yoann Paillot and Camille Thominet (all French) and Alo Jakin of Estonia.
He added that he hoped to settle in as quickly as possible and to integrate fully into the team.
“I hope to improve myself as a rider and find out where I fit in the pro peloton and work from there.”
He said joining the outfit was the realisation of a dream “and to be in such a historic French team really means a lot”.
“Thanks to everyone who supports me at home and to St Michel-Auber93 for making me feel very welcome.”
Van Niekerk enjoyed a successful season with amateur team Christian Magimel last year, claiming numerous victories.
“Amateur racing in France is flat-out all the time. It gave me a lot of resilience.”
Regarding racing in his own country, Van Niekerk said he did not think it would be possible for the first part of the season but the team had expressed an interest in Tour de Limpopo.
