Director of Racing Geraint Thomas makes his mark right away and welcomes back 2 old friends to INEOS

It is still fresh in the memory, as Elia Viviani's farewell was anything but long overdue. The Italian already has a new challenge up his sleeve. Indeed, Viviani was announced along with Daryl Impey as the sports directors at INEOS Grenadiers.

"The INEOS Grenadiers are excited to welcome the highly experienced duo of Elia Viviani and Daryl Impey as Sport Directors, ahead of the 2026 season," the British formation introduced the pair through a press release. With this, the Italian, who recently announced his retirement and had spent 3 years at INEOS, will soon have a new position in the sport.

"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," Viviani announced. "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."

For his part, Impey retired as a professional cyclist in late 2023. His career included winning a stage in the Tour de France, in which he also became the first African rider to wear the yellow jersey. After his career, he joined Israel-Premier Tech as a DS, the team where he spent the last three years of his career.

"I’m really looking forward to working with the riders and staff and playing a part in the team’s ambitions for the future," said the 40-year-old South African. "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."

At the beginning of his career, Impey rode around as a teammate of Geraint Thomas. That was with British Barloworld, where both men raced in 2008 and 2009. At INEOS the two meet again, as Thomas was recently appointed Director of Racing for the British team. "It’s really special to be reunited now as colleagues," Impey said.

"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," the South African concluded.

Thomas is a satisfied man. "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," said the Welshman.