Mark Cavendish joins Team Bahrain Merida

Mark Cavendish has completed his long-expected move to the Bahrain-Merida team where he will be reunited with former coach Rod Ellingworth.

The team, which is expected to be rebranded Bahrain-McLaren next season as part of a growing partnership with the automative brand, announced the 30-time Tour de France stage winner has signed a contract for 2020.

However, it is understood both parties envisage a long-term arrangement, with Cavendish finishing his career with the team.

"Joining this team is the fulfilment of a long-held ambition for me, and is super exciting and motivating," Cavendish said.

"You could even say a dream come true."

Ellingworth, who set up the British Cycling academy which Cavendish came through as a youngster, left what is now Team Ineos earlier this year to become the technical director at Bahrain-Merida from next year.

"My relationship with Rod goes way back, and he's been instrumental in helping me develop as a rider and a person," added Cavendish, who has also previously worked with McLaren.

"I can't wait to join my new team-mates and do everything I can to help us achieve the successes I know will come."