INEOS Grenadiers have, at the end of over a decade, developed a partnership with an under-23 team. It's not a direct development team, but it works similarly. Team Lotto - Kern Haus partnered with the British team and they will have Theodor Storm and Peter Oxenberg race in it's colours next season.
Right now then, the team only has 27 riders confirmed for the 2025 season, with three spots remaining due to this move. These could potentially be filled up with riders such as Elia Viviani and Cameron Wurf who do not yet have a contract for 2025, or other quality riders from the World Tour who are still in search of a team such as former Team Sky rider Kenny Elissonde or Ben Hermans, both riders who have shown good quality this year.
"They are planned to feature alongside their new teammates in a series of races and camps to continue their development and gain valuable experience, whilst maintaining coaching and support from INEOS Grenadiers performance staff," the team wrote as the main explanation for the double decision.
Oxenberg has been signed at the end of 2023, but was allowed to race for the Danish Team Coloquick this year with whom the team had an agreement with. Theodor Storm, 19 years of age, was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome at the start of the year which prevented him from competing throughout the entire 2024 season. He is looking to return to competition next year. Both riders will be part of the INEOS team from 2026 onwards.
Team performance director commented on the transfers: “It’s an exciting moment to see Peter and Theodor joining up with Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank as our development partnership continues apace. We truly believe it’s going to be the perfect environment for both riders to progress and prepare for life in the WorldTour. In addition to getting that crucial racing experience, the riders will also receive continual coaching and support from INEOS Grenadiers performance staff throughout the process. They are both superb young talents and we’re looking forward to cheering on Peter and Theodor next season.”
"I’m really looking forward to 2025 and getting back to racing and the peloton with Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank," Storm added. "It’s a fantastic team, so to be able to compete alongside them, while continuing to work with the INEOS Grenadiers, is a perfect solution. I can’t wait to get started.”
The Dane Oxenberg, known for his time last year at the famous Col de Rates, will continue his gradual rise before being part of the World Tour structure. “To be able to race and gain experience with Lotto Kern-Haus PSD Bank, while continuing to work with the performance team at the INEOS Grenadiers, is a perfect scenario for a young rider. It’s going to be a valuable step on the road to turning professional and I can’t wait to get started next season and continue my development.”
INEOS Grenadiers are excited to place young talents Peter Øxenberg and Theodor Storm with our development partner, @lottokernhaus, in 2025 🤝https://t.co/61gaVmwTkC pic.twitter.com/sSPbicEYwY
— INEOS Grenadiers (@INEOSGrenadiers) December 19, 2024