Geraint Thomas Assumes Fresh Role as Director of Racing at the Ineos cycling team
Ineos Grenadiers have named Geraint Thomas as their new racing director, just weeks after ending his racing career at this year’s Tour of Britain.
"I've called this team home from the very beginning, and stepping into this role feels like a natural next step," Thomas said.
This appointment for Thomas, who was Tour de France winner in 2018, has been long-anticipated and follows a significant leadership overhaul at Ineos Grenadiers.
According to Ineos, Thomas’ freshly established senior position will see him working closely with Ineos sports chief Dave Brailsford and performance director Scott Drawer.
His responsibilities will include contributing key insights on race strategy, rider recruitment, development and race readiness.
Thomas, who last finished on a Grand Tour podium at the 2024 Giro d'Italia, finished third behind Tadej Pogacar and participated in the latest Tour de France.
He brings a blend of multi-day events and one-day racing experience.
"I'm eager to support emerging talent, to pass on that experience and drive the squad ahead towards our goal of Grand Tour victories," Thomas expressed.
His tactical intelligence, years in the sport and knowledge of the peloton will plug a gap in expertise that had become evident lately.
The squad struggled to compete for the podium positions in Grand Tours in the past few seasons.
Ex-team boss Dave Brailsford, back at the Tour de France, conceded last July that he had "much ground to make up" after his time with Manchester United.
Ineos Grenadiers have not won a Grand Tour since 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 champion Tadej Pogacar and his rivals, Vingegaard and Remco 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’ recent appointment was initially discussed last year when he told media outlets that the squad's leadership resembled a "coalition government".
He added that "things were clearer with Dave in charge. Everything was well-defined."
The longstanding professional bond with Thomas played a vital role in bringing him onboard.
"Geraint understands what's required, how to deal with the highs and lows of elite sport and his willingness to now share this and mentor others represents a major plus for the squad," Brailsford affirmed.
