🔗 Share this article

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 stated.

This appointment for Thomas, the 2018 Tour de France champion, was widely expected and comes after a major management reshuffle at Ineos Grenadiers.

According to Ineos, Thomas’ newly created leadership role will see him collaborating directly alongside Ineos head of sport Dave Brailsford and performance director Scott Drawer.

His responsibilities will include providing crucial input into race strategy, talent acquisition, athlete growth and preparation for events.

Thomas, most recently podiumed in a Grand Tour at the 2024 Giro, finished third behind Tadej Pogacar and rode this year’s Tour de France.

He brings a blend of multi-day events and one-day racing experience.

"I’m passionate about helping the next generation come through, to pass on that experience and keep pushing the team forward towards our mission of winning Grand Tours again," Thomas commented.

The Welshman’s guile, experience and understanding of the pack will plug a gap in expertise that had become evident lately.

The British team found it hard to challenge for top spots in Grand Tours in recent years.

Former Grenadiers team principal Dave Brailsford, making his return to the Tour de France, conceded last July that he had "a lot of catching up to do" following his sojourn at Manchester United.

Ineos Grenadiers last claimed a Grand Tour victory in 2021 and the previously leading outfit has been criticised by Thomas himself and former staff.

They noted the team was falling behind four-time Tour de France winner Tadej Pogacar and his rivals, Jonas Vingegaard and Evenepoel.

"The team isn't at its desired level, and not where it must be and the distance is significant," performance expert Dan Bigham remarked, after announcing he was leaving the team in 2024.

Thomas’ recent appointment was first mooted in 2024 when he shared with reporters that the squad's leadership resembled a "coalition government".

He added that "it was a lot more straightforward with Dave at the top. Everything was well-defined."

Brailsford’s long-standing working relationship with Thomas has been key to his recruitment.

"Geraint knows what the process takes, how to deal with the highs and lows of elite sport and his willingness to now share this and guide other riders represents a major plus for the squad," Brailsford said.