Geraint Thomas: Winner of the previous round has been appointed Ineos Racing Director

Thomas, winner of the 2018 Tour de France under the previous team name Team Sky, has finished on the Grand Tour podium three other times.

He also helped Chris Froome and Sir Bradley Wiggins win the prestigious three-week race around France where they dominated the event, winning it seven times between 2012 and 2019.

Brailsford, who returned to a more hands-on role at Ineos earlier this year after previously stepping away from his involvement to take up a position at Manchester United, will hope Thomas can help revive their fortunes.

The 61-year-old added: “He knows what the process requires, how to deal with the highs and lows of elite sport, and his willingness now to share that and mentor others to do the same is a huge asset to the team.”

“The fact that he has remained so humble and has always maintained a great sense of humor are also great attributes to bring to his new role.”

Thomas, a former Whitchurch High School pupil, has also had success on the track, winning Olympic gold in Beijing, China, in 2008 and London in 2012.

He has also enjoyed Welsh success at the Commonwealth Games.

Thomas’ career began in his home city of Cardiff as a child and ended there in September with the conclusion of the 2025 Tour of Britain.

Ineos said Thomas “will work closely with Sir Dave Brailsford and Dr Scott Drewer – and the rest of the senior management team, providing crucial input into race strategy, rider recruitment, development and race preparation”.

“His appointment reflects the team’s long-term commitment to building from within, and harnessing his vast knowledge of the sport and what it takes to win, for the benefit of his fellow Grenadians,” the team statement added.