Geraint Thomas has been a key member of Team Sky since day one and he admits it was an easy decision to extend his contract with a team he says feels like home.
The Welshman has signed a new deal as he looks ahead to more stage-race success in a year that has already seen him win the Volta ao Algarve and Paris-Nice, before he supports Chris Froome's attempt to win a third Tour de France title in July.
Thomas is keen to build upon his start to 2016 and, fresh from penning his new deal, TeamSky.com spoke to him about his future ambitions.
"I'm just super happy being part of the team," he said. "The environment we have here works really well for me and I'm learning all the time about things like the nutritional side, working closely with Tim Kerrison and training day in and day out with the likes of Froomey.
"I'm still learning. I've only really just started when it comes to trying to win stage races. I'm learning all the time about how to get in the best shape for them and how to lead a team.
"It seems to be working really well, so signing again was an easy decision. Team Sky feels like home. From the other riders to the staff, I love it here.
Thomas has talked before about how last year's Tour de France gave him the confidence that he is ready to take the next step in his career.
"Team Sky is the best team to take that next step and that was a big factor in my decision," he said.
"Obviously I've been given a free hand to lead the team and get results in the week-long stage races this year, so next year perhaps the Giro or the Vuelta would be good to target.
"For me, this year started with winning Paris-Nice and is now about going to the Tour in the best shape possible to support Froomey. After the Tour we can start looking to next year and keep setting bigger and better goals.
"It's about keeping my progression going, and Team Sky is the best place to do that.
"We've talked about my ambitions for the future. I want to take the stage racing as far as I can, keep improving and target some of the big races.
"With the years I spent on the track, it feels like I've got a few extra years in the bank when it comes to my road career. Riding on the track is hard, for sure, but the actual workload - day in day out - isn't as tough as it is on the road.
"After London 2012 I really committed to the road and it feels like I have improved year on year. It all feels like it's working well.
Thomas has been with Team Sky since the beginning and has been part of the unbelievable success.
"To think that we have won the Tour de France three times out of six is just incredible, really. I don't think even Dave [Brailsford] would have dreamt of that," he said.
"Obviously my own success has been great. Winning Paris-Nice this year, especially with the calibre of that field, was a massive boost to my confidence. It makes you realise that all the hard work you are putting in is paying off."
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