The Welsh cyclist Steps Into Fresh Position as Racing Director at Ineos Grenadiers
Geraint Thomas has been appointed as the new director of racing at Ineos Grenadiers, only a few weeks after ending his racing career at this year’s Tour of Britain.
"This team has been my home since day one, and taking on this position is a logical progression," Thomas said.
The move by Thomas, the 2018 Tour de France champion, was widely expected and follows a major management reshuffle at Ineos Grenadiers.
As per the team's announcement, Thomas’ freshly established senior position will see him working closely with Ineos head of sport Dave Brailsford and performance director Scott Drawer.
His responsibilities will include contributing key insights on competition planning, rider recruitment, development and preparation for events.
Thomas, who last finished on a Grand Tour podium at the 2024 Giro d'Italia, placed third to Tadej Pogacar and rode this year’s Tour de France.
He offers a mix of stage racing and one-day racing experience.
"I'm eager to support emerging talent, to pass on that experience and drive the squad ahead towards our mission of winning Grand Tours again," Thomas expressed.
The Welshman’s guile, years in the sport and understanding of the pack will plug a gap in expertise that was apparent in recent seasons.
The squad found it hard to challenge for top spots in Grand Tours in the past few seasons.
Ex-team boss Dave Brailsford, back at the Tour de France, admitted last July that he had "much ground to make up" following his sojourn at Manchester United.
Ineos Grenadiers have not won a Grand Tour since 2021 and the previously leading outfit faced criticism by Thomas himself and ex-team members.
They noted the team was lagging behind four-time Tour champion Tadej Pogacar and his rivals, Jonas Vingegaard and Evenepoel.
"Ineos are not where they want to be, and not where it must be and the gap is not small," aerodynamics guru Dan Bigham said, after announcing he was leaving the team in 2024.
Thomas’ new position was first mooted in 2024 when he shared with reporters that the team’s management was “like a coalition government”.
He added that "things were clearer with Dave in charge. There was clarity with everything."
Brailsford’s long-standing working relationship with the Welshman has been key to his recruitment.
"Geraint knows what the process takes, how to handle the ups and downs of top-level competition and his eagerness to pass this on and mentor others is a great asset for the team," Brailsford said.
