After a tumultuous start to the 2026 transfer season, it seems Netcompany INEOS are turning the tide. Having had multiple riders, including Italian powerhouse Filippo Ganna, walk out, it had seemed the team was in chaos. This morning, the British team, who are headed by Geraint Thomas, signed two new talents. Rising young star to join the ranks at INEOS
One of the incoming riders is 23-year-old Joe Blackmore. Blackmore had a standout 2024 season, winning both the Tour de l’Avenir and Liège-Bastogne-Liège U23.
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At the elite level, he turned heads at the Brabantse Pijl, where he followed Wout van Aert and Remco Evenepoel deep into the finale. He also finished fifth at the Tour of Britain. However, he has
since been plagued by a consistent knee injury, which disrupted his race schedule in 2026.
However, he is back and fighting fit, determined to build on his previous achievements with
Netcompany INEOS. He leaves NSN Cycling team, and has signed a three year contract.
On
his new team's website, the 23-year-old from London said, "It’s been a tough 2026 for me with injuries, but it’s made me even more motivated to reach my full potential. Joining a team that operates at the highest level gives me the perfect environment to keep developing. I can’t wait to get started and contribute to the team’s success."
Another Brit joins the ranks alongside Blackmore
Netcompany INEOS have also signed fellow Brit
James Shaw, who previously rode for EF Education-Easy Post. The 30-year-old will bring a wealth of professional racing experience to the INEOS set-up.
Shaw, who was born in Nottingham, has looked up to the team for a long time, and is thrilled to be joining the ranks.
Talking on the team website, he said, "As a kid, this was the team that inspired me. I grew up looking up to riders like Geraint Thomas, so to now have the opportunity to pull on the jersey and become part of a team I've admired for so long is a dream come true.”
Geraint Thomas is excited to build potential, and strong British culture at the team this season
Sports director Geraint Thomas was enthusiastic about his new signings.
Of Blackmore, he said, "Joe is a rider we’ve followed closely and someone we believe has significant potential. He has already shown what he is capable of across different types of racing, but importantly we believe there is still a lot more to come.“
"Our focus will be on giving him the environment, support and time to continue that progression. We’re really looking forward to welcoming him to the team and seeing what we can achieve together.“
And of Shaw, he was no less complimentary. He said, "James is a real fighter. He’s shown significant mental toughness throughout his career and has worked incredibly hard to establish himself at the highest level."
"He’s got a diverse skill set and brings valuable experience to the team. He’s also someone who will contribute to the strong British culture we have within the squad, both on and off the bike."