Lars Forster has already shown his great potential this year with his two victories in the U23 World Cup (Nove Mesto na Morave and Lenzerheide). He also finished the overall World Cup in fourth place despite a protracted shoulder injury in the middle of the year. His performances on the mountain bike and in cyclocross quickly caught the attention of BMC MTB Racing Team Manager Alex Moos. "I've been following Lars for some time now and watching his development closely. I like his riding style and his character; he is not afraid and never gives up!" explains Moos before adding, "I think he has great potential and I am very confident that he will be one of the 15 best cross-country riders in the world in two years at the latest."

In 2016, Lars Forster will focus on the Swiss Cup, in which he has already achieved several podium finishes this year. He will also be showing off his skills in the World Cup series for the first time next year.

"The BMC MTB Racing Team is the best team for my further development," said Lars Forster. "I've always looked up to Ralph Näf and Lukas Flückiger and I'm very happy to be part of this team now. It's also a great honor for me to ride alongside Julien Absalon, one of the most successful mountain bikers of all time, next year and to learn from him."

Lars Forster's first race in the colors of the BMC MTB Racing Team will be the Swiss Cyclocross Championships on January 10, 2016.