Geraint Thomas Appointed Director of Racing at INEOS Grenadiers
INEOS Grenadiers Announce Major Leadership Addition
The INEOS Grenadiers team has announced the appointment of Geraint Thomas as Director of Racing, marking the start of a new chapter in Geraint’s career and underscoring the team’s evolution.
A Decorated Champion Steps Into a New Role
One of cycling’s most respected and decorated riders, Thomas transitions from the peloton into this newly created leadership position at the INEOS Grenadiers. He will work closely with Sir Dave Brailsford, Dr. Scott Drawer – and the rest of the Senior Management Team, providing crucial input into race strategy, rider recruitment, development and race readiness.
Drawing on over two decades of experience at the highest level, and having ridden with the team since its inception, Thomas has been central to many of its defining moments. The proud Welshman’s storied career includes his 2018 Tour de France triumph, multiple Grand Tour podiums and stage race victories, as well as double Olympic gold medal performances with Team GB.
Commitment to Developing the Next Generation
His appointment reflects the team’s long-term commitment to building from within, harnessing his immense knowledge of the sport and what it takes to win, for the benefit of his fellow Grenadiers.
Geraint Thomas said:
This team has been my home since day one, and stepping into this role feels like a natural next step. I’ve learnt so much from the people around me – fellow riders and staff – and I now want to continue building on our incredible past success into the future.
“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. The Grenadiers will continue to race with purpose, humility and a commitment to excellence – and I’m excited to help shape that future.
Sir Dave Brailsford said:
Geraint typifies what it means to be a Grenadier. He has lived and breathed elite performance throughout his career. He always set himself very ambitious goals and invariably went on to achieve them.
“He knows what the process takes, how to deal with the highs and lows of elite sport and his willingness to now to share this and mentor others to do the same is a great asset for the team. The fact that he has stayed so humble and always maintained a great sense of humour are also great attributes to bring to his new role.
Viviani and Impey Strengthen INEOS Grenadiers Performance Team
Experienced Duo Joins as Sport Directors for 2026 Season
Elia Viviani joins following a stellar career on both the road and track, which included a Tour de France stage victory among 90 professional road wins, along with Olympic and World Championship titles on the track. A former Grenadier, the Italian spent three seasons with the team before recently retiring from racing.
Impey, a former South African national champion, became the first African rider to wear the yellow jersey at the Tour de France in 2013 and won a Tour stage in 2019. He concluded a distinguished 16-year pro career in 2023, before successfully moving into the role of Sport Director.
Elia Viviani said:
I’m thrilled to return to the team that has always felt like home, firstly as a rider but now as part of the staff. I want to give my absolute best to support the riders and share everything I’ve learned throughout my career. The team is entering a new era and I’m excited to be part of this challenge.
Daryl Impey said:
I’m really looking forward to working with the riders and staff and playing a part in the team’s ambitions for the future.
“I’ve raced against the INEOS Grenadiers for many years – and even alongside some of the staff earlier in my career – so it’s great to now be working together.
“Having started my career as a teammate of Geraint’s, it’s really special to be reunited now as colleagues. When the opportunity came to join a team with such a clear mission and vision, it was an easy decision to join. I’m excited to get started and hit the ground running in the new year.
Geraint Thomas, Director of Racing, said:
Elia and Daryl are excellent additions to our team. Their experience, professionalism and leadership qualities will add real value to the INEOS Grenadiers.
“They will also bring fresh ideas and perspectives into an established environment which is really important for our growth as a team, as we continue to challenge ourselves in every area.
Photos courtesy INEOS Grenadiers
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