Road race Japanese champion Shotaro Iribe has signed a contract with NTT, the new name of Dimension Data, starting next season, it was announced.

Iribe has spent the past eight seasons with the Japanese continental team Shimano Racing Team, winning the domestic road race title this season and stage wins at the Tour of Thailand and Tour de Kumano in 2018.

"I am very happy to join NTT Pro Cycling. It's a challenge I've been aiming for ever since I started racing bicycles. Words cannot express how happy I am."

The announcement came the same week that the World Tour team previously known as Dimension Data unveiled its new blue and black kit in Tokyo, Japan, where its new title sponsor, NTT (Dimension Data's Japanese parent company), is headquartered.

"It is never easy to challenge this top level, but I am determined to race with all my might for the team. I want to thank everyone who made this possible," said Iribe.

"I am thrilled that Shoutaro, the Japanese champion, will be joining the team at the conclusion of a very important week for the team. The time we spent in Tokyo was very productive and the passion with which they hosted us was truly humbling"

.

"Being a National Champion comes with great prestige and responsibility, and it is very exciting to have a Japanese Champion competing in the NTT Pro Cycling colors.

"Shotaro loves to race and never misses an opportunity, and I can't wait for the 2020 season," the rider said.