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INEOS Grenadiers: From Project to Era

When the team was founded in 2009 as Team Sky Pro-Cycling, the goal was clear: deliver the first British Tour de France winner in the shortest possible time. The entire team was built around that objective, and in the process, British cycling was effectively reformed from the ground up.

The project succeeded—already in 2012, Bradley Wiggins secured the yellow jersey. In the years that followed, the team dominated the Tour and shaped an entire era, now commonly called the “Sky Era.” Between 2012 and 2019, the Brits won the Tour seven times. But the Sky Era doesn’t refer only to those victories—it also describes an extremely scientific and tightly controlled racing approach, where decisions weren’t made by feel, but by power numbers (watts).

The team also won the Vuelta a España and the Giro d’Italia twice each.

In 2019, the team was taken over by chemical company INEOS, followed by name changes to INEOS and then INEOS Grenadiers. While the squad hasn’t fully matched its previous dominance, it is still considered the scientific benchmark in pro cycling and continues to celebrate major wins—now increasingly in the Classics, such as Paris–Roubaix.

Review of 2025 and Outlook for 2026: Top Performance in Transition

From a sporting perspective, the last few years have not been easy for the Grenadiers and have been marked by setbacks. Things improved somewhat in 2025 as the team shifted its focus. Among other highlights, Thymen Arensman won two stages at the Tour.

From 2026 onward, the team must restructure once again. With Geraint Thomas, the 2018 Tour de France winner and the last active rider from the great Sky Era, retiring, the team needs a new leader. The big British hope is Oscar Onley. The young Brit showed his potential with a fourth-place finish at the 2025 Tour de France, and the team is reportedly securing his services for seven million euros.

The official INEOS Grenadiers team kit for 2026 fits this turning point perfectly, because it represents something completely new. Together with Gobik, a kit has been created that stands out in the peloton with its light-grey bib shorts and orange accents—and it’s sure to be the most exciting pro outfit of the year!

INEOS Grenadiers: Perfect Cycling Apparel for Fans and Riders

With the INEOS Grenadiers team collection, you too can be part of this new chapter—or simply show your support for the team.

  • INEOS Grenadiers jersey in Pro and Replica versions
  • The now iconic light-grey bib shorts don’t just bring style to your ride—they also come in proven Gobik quality, with refined compression and Elastic Interface chamois pads.
  • Winter cycling gear such as windproof jackets and thermal bib tights that reliably protect you in cold temperatures.
  • Accessories and merchandise like INEOS Grenadiers socks, gloves, caps, and water bottles to complete your outfit and show your support.