SCOTLAND will host two rounds of the 2016 Pearl Izumi Tour Series as the gladiatorial-style cycling circuit race returns to Motherwell and Edinburgh in May.

It will be the first time that Scotland has had two venues on the calendar since the series began in 2009, coming on the back of last week's announcement that the Tour of Britain would begin in Glasgow this September.

Motherwell will host round two on May 17 before the series returns to Edinburgh after a year's absence for round three on May 19.

The first round of a newly expanded six-race calendar for Britain's top women's teams will also be held in Motherwell.

In 2015, Madison Genesis took the win in Motherwell on their way to the overall title in the men's series, while the women's race saw Scotland's Katie Archibald claim victory with her compatriot Eileen Roe third.

Further details of both events will be announced in the coming weeks, including a revised Edinburgh circuit.

Alongside Motherwell and Edinburgh, eight other venues will host the Pearl Izumi Tour Series including Durham, Stoke-on-Trent and Ramsey on the Isle of Man.

The six top British professional teams who will race at all 10 events in 2016 have been confirmed, led by reigning champions Madison Genesis.

Joining them will be 2014 winners JLT Condor presented by Mavic, NFTO, Pedal Heaven, Team Raleigh GAC and Team WIGGINS.