Ben Swift has announced that he will be leaving Team Sky at the end of the season.
The 28-year-old Brit will join the team known as Lampre-Merida, whose management company have transferred their race licence to Chinese company TJ Sport for 2017.
Swift has been a part of the Sky set-up since its formation in 2010, and secured their maiden overall race win at the Tour de Picardie that year.
"It's like leaving my family, but it's now or never if I want to see how good I can be," said Swift.
"I don't really have anything to lose and I'd like to publicly thank Sky for what they've done for me and British Cycling.
"Most of the time, I would be second fiddle at Sky. When I have done my job for the team, then I get my opportunity. This team will be giving me more freedom and support.
"My new team will have no out-and-out general classification rider, which will open the door a bit. The chance of going there (to the Tour de France) with some freedom would be non-existent at Sky."
Team Sky tweeted: "Thanks for everything @swiftybswift.
"A @TeamSky original! Best of luck next season at TJ Sport".