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Geraint Thomas has been appointed as the new director of racing at Ineos Grenadiers, just weeks after retiring from competition at this year’s Tour of Britain.

"I've called this team home from the very beginning, and taking on this position is a logical progression," Thomas said.

The move by Thomas, who was Tour de France winner in 2018, has been long-anticipated and comes after a major management reshuffle at Ineos Grenadiers.

As per the team's announcement, Thomas’ freshly established senior position will see him working closely with Ineos head of sport Dave Brailsford and performance director Scott Drawer.

His responsibilities will include providing crucial input into race strategy, rider recruitment, development and preparation for events.

Thomas, who last finished on a Grand Tour podium at the 2024 Giro d'Italia, placed third to Tadej Pogacar and participated in the latest Tour de France.

He brings a blend of stage racing and one-day racing experience.

"I'm eager to support emerging talent, to pass on that experience and keep pushing the team forward towards our mission of winning Grand Tours again," Thomas commented.

His tactical intelligence, years in the sport and understanding of the pack will fill a void in know-how that had become evident lately.

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

Former Grenadiers team principal Dave Brailsford, back at the Tour de France, conceded last July that he had "a lot of catching up to do" following his sojourn at Manchester United.

Ineos Grenadiers last claimed a Grand Tour victory in 2021 and the once-dominant team faced criticism by Thomas himself and ex-team members.

They noted the team was falling behind four-time Tour champion Tadej Pogacar and his rivals, Jonas Vingegaard and Evenepoel.

"Ineos are not where they want to be, nor where they need to be and the gap is not small," aerodynamics guru Dan Bigham remarked, following his 2024 departure announcement.

Thomas’ recent appointment was initially discussed last year when he shared with reporters that the squad's leadership resembled a "coalition government".

He noted that "things were clearer with Dave in charge. Everything was well-defined."

Brailsford’s long-standing working relationship with the Welshman played a vital role in bringing him onboard.

"Geraint knows what the process takes, how to deal with the highs and lows of elite sport and his willingness to now share this and mentor others represents a major plus for the squad," Brailsford affirmed.