FORMER world champion Mark Cavendish has signed to African cycling team MTN-Qhubeka for 2016 it has been confirmed.

Cavendish said he was "super excited" about joining the South Africa-based outfit.

The British rider, who currently races for the Belgian Etixx-QuickStep team, will be joined by fellow new signings Mark Renshaw and Bernhard Eisel.

"It is a team that I have watched closely as it has grown, especially over this season and been really impressed with the spirit, strength and dynamics of the group," said Cavendish. "It’s fair to say that most of the peloton has seen how incredible the Team raced this year.

"To join it with the target of helping to win even more races with other strong, experienced household cycling names like Mark Renshaw, Edvald Boasson-Hagen, Tyler Farrar, Daniel Teklehaimanot, Steve Cummings and, of course, Bernie Eisel is going to be real special, as well as assisting the talent of the young, African riders to top level success.

"Also, for me personally, one of the biggest incentives is riding for a greater cause in the Qhubeka charity. I’m really looking forward to having a successful year on the road alongside the other guys and helping directly to get more bikes in the hands of people who need them."

MTN-Qhubeka is set to change its name to Team Dimension Data riding for Qhubeka for next season.