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.
"This team has been my home since day one, 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, was widely expected and follows a significant leadership overhaul at Ineos Grenadiers.
As per the team's announcement, Thomas’ freshly established senior position will see him collaborating directly alongside Ineos sports chief Dave Brailsford and performance director Scott Drawer.
His responsibilities will include contributing key insights on race strategy, talent acquisition, development 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 participated in the latest Tour de France.
He offers a mix of stage racing and one-day racing experience.
"I’m passionate about helping the next generation come through, to share my know-how and keep pushing the team forward towards our goal of Grand Tour victories," Thomas commented.
The Welshman’s guile, years in the sport and knowledge of the peloton will fill a void in know-how that was apparent in recent seasons.
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 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 falling behind four-time Tour champion Tadej Pogacar and his rivals, 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 initially discussed last year 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. There was clarity with everything."
Brailsford’s long-standing working relationship with the Welshman played a vital role in bringing him onboard.
"Geraint knows what the process takes, how to deal with the highs and lows of elite sport and his eagerness to pass this on and guide other riders represents a major plus for the squad," Brailsford affirmed.
