After almost 10 years with Lampre-Merida, Damiano Cunego has confirmed that he will join Nippo-Vini Fantini for the 2015 season.
The 33-year-old, who won the 2004 Giro d'Italia, will join fellow Italian riders Pierpaolo De Negri, Alessandro Bisolti and Alessandro Malaguti at the Japanese team.
"I'm happy with the decision taken and the choice made. It is a nice project, which will see us at the start of next season with so many young people and with my experience," Cunego said in a post on his personal website.
"It will be a team built around me, I still want to race and give more success to my fans."
Cunego also thanked Lampre-Merida for their support over the years.
"I leave a team like Lampre, who by now have become almost like a second family to me after nine years together," said Cunego.
"I want to thank everyone from Beppe Saronni, the technical staff, managers, masseurs, mechanics, who have followed me with professionalism, and heartfelt thanks goes out to Mario Galbusera who with his passion is close to the team and supports our sport."
Cunego will race the Giro dell'Emilia on October 11 and the Japan Cup on October 20 for Lampre-Merida before completing the move at the end of the season.
