As the Athertons announced their not-so-shocking move to Trek  a few weeks ago it was inevitable that GT would be pulling in some big names to replace them.

The curtain has dropped today and the team will be comprised of former World Cup winner Brook Mac Donald, British rider Sam Dale and perennial prankster Wyn Masters.

MacDonald is a straight swap from Trek while Sam Dale will be replaced at Madison by Marc Beaumont, who took a year off racing in 2015.

GT has also recruited Anneke Beerten to its enduro team. Anneke finished third in last year’s EWS and will race alongside Martin Maes, Rachel Throop and Wyn Masters.

Tim Inall, Global general manager for GT, said: “GT has a rich history of top-level racing successes and a line of World Championship-proven bikes,” said Tim Inall, Global General Manager for GT. “The brand is extremely proud to have been associated with Atherton Racing Program since 2012. Now, however, we’re ready for this next chapter in GT Factory Racing. We are excited to continue the momentum to form and manage a new team of accomplished riders from around the world.

Watch our Pro Bike Check of Gee Atherton’s GT Fury

“GT’s new roster of athletes are known for their successes both on and off the bike. The team will vie for both Downhill World Cup and Enduro World Series podiums riding the GT Fury and GT Sanction respectively.”

Dale said: ““Absolutely buzzing for the future with GT, as you can see with this team lineup we’re going to have a lot of laughs and fun racing our bikes all while putting in the work that is needed. When there is a set up like this, there will be success for the team and for myself. I’m really excited to get these bikes on the back wheel and going flat out.”

The GT enduro team will be unleashed at the end of March in Chile and the downhill team in April at Lourdes.