Tudor sees 3-year contract for Hirschi as new puzzle piece, Red Bull makes no secret of Pithie's arrival

In San Sebastian, Hirschi defeated Julian Alaphilippe, who is also being linked to Tudor. Fabian Cancellara's team aims to join the WorldTour in the future and is steadily building towards that goal, having already signed riders like Matteo Trentin and Michael Storer last year. Dutch riders Arvid de Kleijn, Maikel Zijlaard and Rick Pluimers also race for the team.

Next year, Hirschi, who like Cancellara is from Bern, will join them. "Signing Marc feels like the next piece of the puzzle of our story. We know him well and understand his needs. He is the right fit for the team and the values we stand for. We are convinced we can help him to achieve the highest level," said Cancellara, who also announced the signing of 30-year-old Fabian Lienhard.

Hirschi has signed a three-year contract. "As a Swiss rider, it feels special to join a Swiss team. I am 25 so it is time for me to endorse the role of a leader and see how far I can go. Tudor Pro Cycling is giving me this opportunity and I hope to return the trust with some fine victories," said the puncher, who will be replaced at UAE-Team Emirates by Jhonatan Narváez.

Raphael Meyer, the team's CEO, is also thrilled with Hirschi's arrival. He also announced the signing of 30-year-old Swiss rider Fabian Lienhard (from Groupama-FDJ). "We are excited to add Marc and Fabian to the team roster. Both bring massive experience. Marc will be a leader in one-day and one-week stage races while Fabian will be another solid addition to the Classics team."

In addition to Lienhard, Groupama-FDJ saw their homegrown New Zealander Laurence Pithie leave on Monday. He is headed to Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe. "I’m super excited to be joining Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe for the coming seasons. It is an impressive team with a great project for the future. I can’t wait to get started and progress as a rider in their new colours."

Ralph Denk is also pleased with his new acquisition. "Only 22 years old and he already has his first WorldTour win, impressive debuts in San Remo, Roubaix and the Giro, and aggressive riding in major classics like Gent-Wevelgem. Laurence is still young, but his talent is no longer a secret. I am delighted that he has chosen to join our team and that we will be taking the next step in his career together."