French cyclist Martinez signs for Team Bahrain

France's Lenny Martinez has left Groupama-FDJ to join Team Bahrain on a three-year contract, the cyclist's new team announced on Sunday.

"Team Bahrain Victorious is pleased to announce the signing of young French talent Lenny Martinez for the next three seasons," Bahrain said in a statement.

The 21-year-old mountain specialist will join new teammates Santiago Buitrago and Antonio Tiberi with the aim of bolstering Bahrain's general classification credentials, the outfit indicated.

"When we started this project in 2017, we dreamed of achieving a podium at the Tour de France with a French rider from our team. We believe Lenny gives us that chance. His talent, dedication, and spirit align perfectly with our team's vision," said Bahrain managing director Milan Erzen.

Son of the 2000 Olympic Games mountain biking champion Miguel Martinez, he has earned six wins so far in his career, five of which have come this season.

"The solid project around the team and myself convinced me. Together, we have great ambitions, and I am convinced we will achieve great things," said Martinez.