UAE Team Emirates will continue its youth development into 2020 with another young talent, Mikkel Bjerg, signing a three-year contract.

Born in Copenhagen in 1998, Bjerg has proved himself as a top class time triallist, winning the world Under 23 title twice in a row (2017 and 2018).

Team manager Joxean Matxin comments on the signing: “Mikkel is one of the hottest prospects in the world when it comes to the time trial, he holds two u-23 World titles and now to have him along with McNulty they will both be a real force in that discipline.It’s also important to point out how close he has come in his attempts to break the World Hour record, and to do that at such a young age is extremely impressive.

Mikkel will add great value to our team against the clock.

He is not only a great time trial rider: he can become a very versatile cyclist, strong on the flat and on the cobbles and can also do well on the shorter climbs. “

Mikkel Bjerg commented on his move to UAE Team Emirates.

Mikkel, why have you chosen to join UAE?

“I opted for UAE Team Emirates because it is a team showing great interest in the development of young riders.

It’s really exciting to be part of a World Tour team characterised by a base of experienced riders along with some of the best talents of the new generation, including Philipsen, Pogačar, McNulty and Ardila. In my current team, Hagens Berman Axeon, young riders work together and motivate each other and I think it will be interesting to do it next season with UAE.”

You’re excited about the move to a World Tour team?

“I’m more than excited for this step in my career. In the last two years I have had the opportunity to grow up in a perfect environment, which led me to the point I’m finally at now – joining the World Tour. I’m really excited to be stepping up and competing at this level.”

What is your goal for the immediate future?

“I would first like to continue to improve, both in road races and in the time trial.

I am aiming also to get some good results, more important is to learn from my experienced teammates and get used to the jump in level.”