Netcompany-Ineos Strengthens Roster with Key Signings, Including Former Tour de l'Avenir Winner Joe Blackmore

Netcompany-Ineos, a prominent British WorldTour cycling team, has revealed a series of significant new signings, signaling a major overhaul in its roster strategy. Among the notable additions is Joe Blackmore, a former victor of the prestigious Tour de l'Avenir, who is set to join the squad for a three-year term. This move is part of a broader effort to inject fresh talent and reinforce the team's capabilities across various cycling disciplines, as they prepare for intense competition in the coming seasons. The strategic recruitment drive underscores the team's ambition to maintain its competitive edge and develop future champions.

The team's director, Geraint Thomas, emphasized the potential he sees in Blackmore, highlighting the young rider's versatility and past achievements in different racing formats. Despite a challenging 2026 season marked by injuries for Blackmore, Thomas expressed confidence in the team's ability to provide the necessary support and environment for his continued growth and success. This commitment reflects Netcompany-Ineos's philosophy of nurturing talent and providing a robust support system for its athletes.

Strategic Roster Reinforcement

Netcompany-Ineos has officially confirmed the acquisition of Joe Blackmore, a 23-year-old talent and a past winner of the Tour de l'Avenir, for a three-year contract. This signing is a key component of the team's extensive roster adjustments, which also include British cyclist James Shaw and French rider Clément Champoussin for the 2027 season. The influx of these athletes is expected to significantly enhance the team's performance, particularly in general classification objectives and climbing stages. This strategic recruitment follows the departure of several riders, including Filippo Ganna, Magnus Sheffield, and Ben Turner, indicating a concerted effort to reshape the team's dynamics and competitive profile.

Blackmore's career has been marked by remarkable successes, including victories in the Liège-Bastognie-Liège U23, Tour de Taiwan, and Tour de Rwanda in 2024, the same year he triumphed at the Tour de l'Avenir. These achievements led to him being named Cycling Weekly's rider of the year. Despite a recent season hampered by a persistent knee injury, Blackmore expressed immense excitement and gratitude for this new opportunity, viewing it as a fresh impetus to realize his full potential. Geraint Thomas, the team's director of racing, underscored Blackmore's significant potential and the team's commitment to fostering his progression, highlighting the belief that there is much more to come from the young rider under their guidance.

Veteran Experience and Climbing Prowess

The strategic additions to Netcompany-Ineos extend beyond emerging talents to include experienced riders who bring valuable skills and leadership. James Shaw, joining after five seasons with EF Education-EasyPost, is recognized for his strong climbing abilities and has signed a one-year contract. Shaw expressed his long-standing admiration for the team and its riders, particularly Geraint Thomas, viewing this opportunity as a dream come true. Thomas lauded Shaw's mental toughness and dedication, emphasizing his diverse skill set and his potential to enrich the team's strong British culture both on and off the bike. Shaw's experience and resilience are expected to be invaluable assets.

Furthermore, Clément Champoussin, transitioning from XDS Astana, will bolster the team's climbing capabilities. The 28-year-old Frenchman, a stage winner at the 2021 Vuelta, is anticipated to play a crucial role in supporting riders like Blackmore and Oscar Onley in their pursuit of general classification ambitions. Thomas commented on Champoussin's significant experience and consistent climbing performance at the highest level, noting that his inclusion adds another dimension to the team. These strategic signings collectively aim to fortify Netcompany-Ineos with a blend of promising youth and proven experience, enhancing its competitive standing in professional cycling.