INEOS Grenadiers: From Team Sky Dominance to Rebuild
Geraint Thomas has reassured fans that the INEOS Grenadiers remain a top priority for team owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, despite his growing involvement with Manchester United. Speaking on The Sports Agents podcast, the 2018 Tour de France winner shared his optimism about the team’s future and revealed why circuit racing could be the next big evolution in professional cycling.
INEOS Grenadiers: From Dominance to Rebuild
Thomas reflected on the team’s transition from Team Sky to INEOS in 2019, admitting the timing coincided with the end of their golden era.
“It was just unfortunate that when they came into the cycling team, it was towards the end of our reign,” Thomas said. “In sport, it’s hard to stay at the top forever. It always comes in cycles, and they came in just as [Tadej] Pogačar came on the scene.”
While INEOS celebrated an early Tour de France win under its new name, subsequent seasons have been challenging. “I was on podiums but we weren’t winning, which was tough,” Thomas added. “Now, hopefully, it’s on the way up and we just want to get back to the top.”
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Commitment to Cycling
With Ratcliffe investing heavily in Manchester United, questions have arisen about his focus on cycling. Thomas dismissed concerns, saying:
“I know Sir Jim personally. He loves cycling. I can’t speak for INEOS officially, but I feel like they’re involved for the next few years for sure.”
Circuit Racing: The Future of Cycling?
Thomas also weighed in on the recent Vuelta a España protests, which disrupted the final stage. He believes circuit racing could improve safety and fan engagement:
“I think circuits are the way forward. As a spectator, you get to see the riders three or four times instead of just once. It’s safer and better for the sport financially.”
