OFFICIAL: Blow for INEOS as in-form rider that just won general classification signs for Pinarello Q36.5 on three-year deal
CyclingMonday, 17 August 2026 at 14:22
Pinarello Q36.5 have confirmed the signing of Andrew August on a three year deal, joining in January 2027. In a huge blow to Netcompany INEOS in the transfer market, the Czech Tour winner leaves while in-form and off the back of a significant breakthrough this season.
In his third year at professional level following his 2024 debut from the junior ranks, August has developed into a WorldTour level all-rounder capable of competing for general classification in stage races and picked up his first WorldTour stage win at Itzulia Basque Country in Spring.
While a blow for INEOS, the move resembles yet another major signing for the ProTeam, adding August to the signings of Mauro Schmid, Sebastian Berwick and Pavel Bittner as they bolster their squad in their push for promotion to WorldTour.
"Winning the Czech Tour was a confirmation for me. I had been feeling really strong in training in the weeks before, and then everything came together. To win the GC and two stages gives me a lot of confidence," August said in a press release.
August still discovering limits as he moves to Pinarello Q36.5
“I’m still discovering my limits and what kind of rider I can become. Right now, I just want to keep discovering that and win as many races as I can.”
The American rider noted jumping into the "deep end" of WorldTour racing at 18 has helped him quickly get up to speed, winning five times since turning professional with the British team.
He added: "Racing in the US is completely different to racing in Europe, so it was a big transition, both as a junior and then as a professional. Joining INEOS at 18 meant jumping straight into the deep end, but it allowed me to learn how cycling works at the highest level.
“From my first conversations with Pinarello Q36.5, the professionalism of the Team really impressed me. It gave me the strongest feeling that this is the best place to continue my development and become the best rider I can be.”
Team back him to jump to next level
Douglas Ryder, Team Principal of Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team, noted the 20-year-old's WorldTour experience as he stated that the rider can become a leading star of his generation.
He said: “Andrew is a rider who has impressed us for some time. At only 20 years old, he already has valuable WorldTour experience, and what stands out is how quickly he continues to develop."
"His performances this season, including two stage wins and the overall victory at the Czech Tour, show both his talent and his ability to turn potential into results.
"We believe Andrew has all the attributes to become one of the leading riders of his generation. He is ambitious, committed to his development, and constantly looking for ways to improve. Just as importantly, he has the mindset and professionalism required to succeed at the highest level of the sport."
Gavin QuinnCycling Journalist
Gavin Quinn is a cycling journalist and ultra-distance cyclist with a BA in Journalism from Dublin City University. Formerly the Press & Communications Officer for Cycling Ireland, Gavin has worked inside the national team at the World Championships and has reported for the Irish Mirror, Mirror UK, and The42.
His expertise is backed by elite-level access, having interviewed stars like Sam Bennett and Ben Healy, as well as immense personal endurance. In 2025, he completed a 12,000km solo cycle from Ireland to Vietnam, following a 4,600km tour across Europe. From the cobbles of Paris-Roubaix to the gradients of the Tourmalet, Gavin’s writing focuses on the "romance and brutality" of the sport. Having visited 50+ countries, he brings a global, cultural perspective to his coverage of the pro peloton for CyclingUpToDate.
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