Przemyslaw Niemiec and LAMPRE-MERIDA have reached an agreement to extend the current contract to the end of the 2017 season.

The climbing skills of the Polish rider and his talent in grand tours, in addition to the experience he gained in 14 years as a pro cyclist, 5 of which he spent in the WorldTour wearing the blue-fuchsia- green jersey, contribute to making Niemiec a perfect rider to lead the young talented riders of the team in their improvement.

Brent Copeland, team manager, explained why Niemiec received the proposal to stay with the team at least the end of the 2017 season:

"There are not many cyclists who can sum up experience and climbing qualities like Niemiec. Przemyslaw is an exemplary cyclist, his improvement to a top level of cycling skills has been impressive and he's now ready to allow young guns to exploit his support and his teaching.

"We decided to extend his contract mainly because, in addition to the usual opportunities to race for personal results, he'll be a key person for the bunch of young riders in our roster. The team's sport directors will soon set the basis of the 2016 program and they'll have the opportunity to rely on Niemiec as an extra value."

"Bearing in mind that the last season wasn’t the best, I appreciate the fact that the contract has been extended. It’s a clear sign that Team LAMPRE-MERIDA has a lot of trust in me. I want to show my gratitude through good performances," Niemiec said. "I’m intent on achieving good results next season and I know I can fight for individual success. At the same time I don’t forget about the support both on and off the bike  which I can provide to my team mates, especially to many young riders.

"It’s important for me that Team LAMPRE-MERIDA is satisfied with me. The management is aware that I had a lot of bad luck last season. For five years I’ve had all I need in this team and I feel very happy to be a part of it. In December, together with the sport directors, I will set the first draft of my racing schedule for next year. I would like the Giro d’Italia to be my main racing goal for the first half of the season. 

"I train hard every day to strengthen my leg muscles. In about two weeks’ time I’m gonna start training on the bike. I want to be fit and well prepared for the next season, my motivation to ride at a high level is very big. I’ve had a good rest after last season, I don’t have to worry about my future and I can focus on riding the best I can next season."