One Pro Cycling granted UCI Pro Continental licence for 2016

One Pro Cycling’s long-term goal of riding the Tour de France moved a step closer today as the UCI granted them a Pro Continental licence for 2016.

Becoming the first British team in the sport’s second tier enables them to be invited to the sport’s biggest races – including the three Grand Tours and one-day classics – as well as having a European-focused programme.

One, who only launched for the 2015 season and finished second overall in the Tour Series, are still expected to compete in the top British UCI-ranked events such as the Tour of Britain, Tour de Yorkshire and Prudential RideLondon.

“We’re an ambitious team and after a strong debut season racing in Britain we were in no doubt of where we wanted to be next season,” said team CEO Matt Prior, the former England cricketer.

One Pro's secrets revealed

"We’ve spent the last few months carefully selecting new riders to join the squad preparing us for what will be a huge step up. We have a great balance of talented up and coming riders who are hugely motivated to fulfil their potential, as well as experienced riders who have already tasted success at the top level. This mix of experience and youthful exuberance will stand us in good stead.”

Former Milan-San Remo victor Matt Goss is among the 12 new recruits to One’s 20-man roster for 2016, which also includes 2009 British road race champion Kristian House and Australian sprinter Steele von Hoff.

Former Rapha Condor-Sharp rider James McCallum and Phil West, Lizzie Armitstead’s long-time coach, have been added to the coaching staff.