OFFICIAL: INEOS go back to their roots as they sign two British riders - including exciting talent and former Tour de l'Avenir winner
Cycling
Netcompany INEOS have announced the signing of two new riders, seemingly going back to their roots as they welcome two British riders - including a former Tour de l'Avenir winner.
Geraint Thomas's team announced the double signing of Joe Blackmore and James Shaw on Wednesday, further adding to the signature of Clement Champoussin - also announced on Wednesday afternoon.
In a transfer window that has seen nine riders leave the team - including Filippo Ganna, Andrew August and Magnus Sheffield among the team's core riders - the arrival of the duo serves as a boost.
Blackmore announced himself to the cycling world with wins at both the Tour de l’Avenir and Liège-Bastogne-Liège U23 in 2024. With four professional victories, the 23-year-old joins from NSN after an injury-disrupted 2026 saw him race over just three days.
“I’m extremely excited and grateful for the opportunity to spend the next three years of my career with Netcompany INEOS. It’s been a tough 2026 for me with injuries, but it’s made me even more motivated to reach my full potential," Blackmore said.
Blackmore hopes to reach potential at INEOS
“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.”
Also joining the team is 30-year-old climber James Shaw, adding depth to their stage racing and one-day racing line-ups as he joins from EF Education-EasyPost. He admitted that joining the team is a dream come true.
Shaw 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.”
For Geraint Thomas, the reinforcements offer a mix of Blackmore's potential and the fighting spirit and stability of Shaw.
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Geraint Thomas on new arrivals
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."
He continued: “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.”
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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