Another big bit of team news rattling in this January as George Brannigan makes the switch from Commencal to GT for 2018.

Welcome to the team @georgebrannigan, @nogakorem and @joeymtb! Since its inception, GT Factory Racing has been centered on having maximum fun while racing some of the biggest and best events around the world. Our new recruits will join athletes @martin_maes5 and @wynmasters in continuing with the GT good times this coming race season while remaining focused on chasing those podium finishes. @rachelstrait1 will continue with GT and bring her enduro expertise to GT’s Wing Project joining athletes @hansnowayrey, @tylermccaul, @ronnie_renner, @bernardocruzdh and @amir_kabbani. Let's do this! #srslyfun

A post shared by GT Factory Racing (@gtfactoryracing) on Jan 8, 2018 at 5:57am PST

GT said: “A two-time New Zealand National MTB Champion, George Brannigan brings his rowdy DH racing and competitive spirit to GTFR. Over the years, his speed has led him to several top finishes including 1st at the Crankworx Rotorua AirDH in 2016 as well as 2nd at the UCI-Oceania Continental Championship that same year. In 2018, Brannigan looks forward to elevating his game and earning some World Cup podiums.”

George will continue to focus solely on downhill on a GT team that has shed Brook MacDonald, Sam Dale and Alessia Missiaggia over the off-season. Wyn Masters will stay on GTFR downhill program this year and Joey Forresta also joins as a junior.

On the enduro side, Martin Maes will be joined by Noga Korem (who replaces Anneke Beerten) with Masters staddling both disciplines.

Brannigan said: “I’m stoked on a fresh start with GT. They have been awesome in welcoming me and are so enthusiastic about everything they do. I’m also excited to work with a brand that is iconic within the mountain bike industry. Can’t wait for some good years to come!”