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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.

"This team has been my home since day one, and stepping into this role feels like a natural next step," Thomas said.

The move by Thomas, who was Tour de France winner in 2018, has been long-anticipated 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, rider recruitment, 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 brings a blend of stage racing and single-day competition knowledge.

"I'm eager to support emerging talent, to share my know-how and keep pushing the team forward towards our mission of winning Grand Tours again," Thomas expressed.

His tactical intelligence, experience and understanding of the pack will fill a void in know-how that was apparent in recent seasons.

The squad struggled to compete for the podium positions in Grand Tours in recent years.

Ex-team boss Dave Brailsford, back at the Tour de France, admitted last July that he had "a lot of catching up to do" after his time with Manchester United.

Ineos Grenadiers have not won a Grand Tour since 2021 and the once-dominant team faced criticism by Thomas himself and ex-team members.

They noted the team was lagging 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, and not where it must be and the distance is significant," performance expert Dan Bigham said, following his 2024 departure announcement.

Thomas’ recent appointment was initially discussed last year when he told media outlets that the team’s management was “like a coalition government”.

He noted 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 understands what's required, how to deal with the highs and lows of elite sport and his eagerness to pass this on and mentor others is a great asset for the team," Brailsford said.