Geraint Thomas has been appointed as the new director of racing at Ineos Grenadiers, only a few weeks after retiring from competition 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 stated.
The move by Thomas, the 2018 Tour de France champion, was widely expected and follows 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, rider recruitment, athlete growth and preparation for events.
Thomas, who last finished on a Grand Tour podium at the 2024 Giro d'Italia, finished third behind Tadej Pogacar and rode this year’s Tour de France.
He offers a mix 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 drive the squad ahead towards our mission of winning Grand Tours again," Thomas expressed.
His tactical intelligence, experience and understanding of the pack will plug a gap in expertise that had become evident lately.
The squad found it hard to challenge for top spots in Grand Tours in recent years.
Former Grenadiers team principal Dave Brailsford, back at the Tour de France, conceded last July that he had "much ground to make up" following his sojourn at Manchester United.
Ineos Grenadiers last claimed a Grand Tour victory in 2021 and the previously leading outfit faced criticism 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 Remco Evenepoel.
"Ineos are not where they want to be, nor where they need to be and the distance is significant," performance expert Dan Bigham remarked, after announcing he was leaving the team in 2024.
Thomas’ new position was first mooted in 2024 when he told media outlets 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 Thomas played a vital role in bringing him onboard.
"Geraint understands what's required, 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.
