In a time where several teams have difficulties finding new sponsors, Francaise des Jeux has decided to extend its sponsorship of the team known as FDJ.fr until the end of the 2016 season. The French lottery wants to increase its brand visibility, support the fight against doping and help the next generation of French cycling by extending its commitment to one of France's major teams.

It has been a fantastic year for the FDJ.fr team run by Marc Madiot. With 33 wins and more than 70 podium spots, the team had its most successful season since its inception in 1997 and today the year has been capped off in the best possible way with the announcement that Francaise des Jeux which has been the main backer for all 17 seasons, has committed itself to support the team until the end of the 2016 season.

During its time in the professional peloton, the team has been one of the major French squads and a perennial participant in the Tour de France. While the team has been an important force in its home country, it has - like French cycling in general - had difficulties competing against the biggest international teams and even dropped to pro continental level in 2011.

With the rise of the next generation of French cyclists, the team has increased its level significantly and is now reaping the rewards for its dedicated commitment to young French talents. With riders like Arnaud Demare, Nacer Bouhanni, Thibaout Pinot, Kenny Elissonde and Alexandre Geniex, the team played a significant role in most of the biggest races in 2013 and was rewarded with numerous prestigious wins, most notably its two stage wins in the Vuelta a Espana.

The French lottery that backs the squad, has decided to reward those exploits by securing the future of the team for the coming three seasons. The company cites the increased brand visibility, the team's dedication to clean cycling and their wish to support young French talents for their decision to continue as main sponsor.

"I welcome this decision which allows us to form the future of a brilliant young generation by giving them the means to fulfil their ambitions," manager Marc Madiot said. I also hail the loyalty of FDJ to Fench cycling and this particular team.

The team also revealed its jersey for the coming season. Midway through 2013, the team decided to change its traditional white jersey to a blue one  and the team will stick with this choice in 2014. A red diamond appears on the back of the jersey to improve the visibility and recognition on helicopter shots from the races. Furthermore, the team will wear the Bleuet de France symbol on the torso to commemorate the century of the start of Wold War 1. The jersey can be seen here.

FDJ.fr ended 17th on the 2013 WorldTour rankings.