AG2R-La Mondiale to have Champion for two years

Dimitri Champion's tricolour jersey will be emblazoned with the logo of AG2R-La Mondiale in 2010 after the team confirmed on Saturday that the reigning French road champion signed a two-year deal. The 26-year-old said he was keen to make an impression for the team at races including the Tour de France.

"I wanted to stay in France and AG2R-La Mondiale offered me a racing programme and changes that I was pleased with," said Champion. "I am happy to display my champion's jersey as part of a French team. I want to be a part of beautiful races and look forward to challenges such as Paris-Nice or the Tour de France. "

Champion, who raced for Bouygues Télécom for two years (2007-2008), will return to the ProTour after racing this season with Continental team Bretagne Armor Lux. His win at the French Championship was one of four victories in his most successful season to date.

AG2R-La Mondiale have experienced one of their leanest years in terms of race victories, with just five wins this season. Team Principal Vincent Lavenu said he hopes the signing of Champion will improve the team's chances of victory next season.

"Dimitri is a rider who is renowned for his reliability and professionalism. He is able to target specific objectives and demonstrated this ability at this year's French Championships," said Lavenu. "He is someone who can race at the highest level and win races. Dimitri has been selected to reinforce AG2R-La Mondiale."

Before his move to AG2R, Champion will compete for France at this month's World Championships. He was selected as part of France's six-man team for the road race by national coach Laurent Jalabert last month. Champion and his teammates will race in support of Pierrick Fédrigo in the race on September 27.

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