The Italian brand arm of clothing company APG SRL will provide equipment for all European champions for the next four years in all disciplines and categories.

The agreement signed at the headquarters of the company in Bonferraro di Sorgà in Italy has been described as "an important event" for the UEC.

The organisation is now associated with a prestigious brand for all its champions’ clothing for 15 continental races, with a total of approximately 100 titles awarded, the UEC claimed.

"The arrival of the ALÉ brand to our group of partners is a huge bonus and will make the brand even more prestigious," UEC President David Lappartient said.

"The vibrancy and drive of this Italian company is totally in harmony with our philosophy which is to continue to look to the future by offering even more attractive and current products.

"These are objectives that we continually strive for and that will now become even more prestigious thanks to this important partnership."

Through the conclusion of this continental partnership, ALÉ is claimed to be continuing to develop and strengthen its position as a major brand in the world of cycling.

It is already involved with clubs and various professional cycling teams.

Clothing with the ALÉ logo will be on show at the various European Championships awards ceremonies broadcast live on television in more than 60 countries.

"We are proud and pleased to be associated with the European Cycling Union, a benchmark organisation in Europe," APG SRL and ALÉ chief executive Federico Zecchetto said.

"This sponsorship will enable us to promote everywhere in Europe the key strengths of our brand: 100 per cent performance, technicity and quality products made in Italy."