INEOS Grenadiers have confirmed a significant block of contract extensions ahead of the 2026 season, securing five riders who form the backbone of the team’s experience, climbing depth and race day reliability. The announcements reinforce a clear strategy, centred on stability, leadership and long-term development.
Kwiatkowski commits to a second decade with the team
Michał Kwiatkowski has signed a new three-year contract, keeping the former world champion with the Grenadiers well into his thirties. His renewal ensures the team retains one of the most complete riders of his generation, a proven winner in one-day races and stage races alike, and one of the peloton’s most trusted road captains.
Kwiatkowski said it felt natural to stay, adding that he loves the atmosphere, the people and the way the team works. He also said he is not here to remain in a comfort zone, but to keep pushing himself every day. He described cycling as a sport where one day you are on top of the world and the next you are fighting through a difficult moment, and that the team has supported him through both. He said the Grenadiers still feel like home and that he retains the same hunger and motivation every time he pins on a number.
With victories in Milan San Remo, Amstel Gold Race, Strade Bianche, Tirreno Adriatico and the Tour de Pologne, plus his 2014 world title, Kwiatkowski continues to set the standard for professionalism inside the team.
Ben Swift extends, continuing his role as the team’s cultural anchor
Ben Swift will race on for another season after agreeing a further one-year extension. The double British road race champion remains one of the team’s most influential leaders, particularly for younger riders stepping into the WorldTour.
Swift said that heading into an 18th professional season feels fantastic and that he still loves racing, the camaraderie and the shared purpose of the group. He said it is a privilege to help guide the younger riders and that the team is on an upward trajectory which he is excited to continue contributing to.
His consistency across terrain, along with his experience as a former world champion on the track, continues to make him a dependable figure in key moments.
Lucas Hamilton signs two year extension as climbing depth grows
Lucas Hamilton will remain with INEOS Grenadiers through 2027, signing a two-year extension after a strong first season with the team. The Australian has reinforced the squad’s climbing and stage race capabilities, impressing with his tactical intelligence and versatility.
Hamilton said he is very happy to extend and that the team feels like home after only a year, describing the environment as one filled with great people. He believes strongly in the direction the Grenadiers are heading and is excited to continue the journey.
A product of the Australian development system and a former winner of the mountains classification at the Tour de l’Avenir, Hamilton has matured into a dependable Grand Tour helper who can also aim for results in week-long races.
Kim Heiduk continues development with new one-year deal
German rider Kim Heiduk has secured a one-year extension as reward for his steady progress and reliability. His power on the flat and his positioning in hectic races have made him an important figure in both classics squads and stage race lead-outs.
Heiduk said the team feels like a family and that extending his contract means a great deal. He emphasised how much he has learnt since joining the Grenadiers and said he is motivated to keep helping the leaders while continuing to develop across the biggest races.
A former under-23 German champion and a strong performer since joining the WorldTour, Heiduk remains a rider on an upward curve.
Brandon Rivera signs on for another season
Brandon Rivera has also extended for one more year, keeping his steady climbing support within the team’s Grand Tour and stage race structure. The Colombian has been a reliable performer, particularly in the mountains and on varied terrain.
Rivera said each season with the Grenadiers feels like a new opportunity to grow and give his best. He also said he is proud to be part of the team and to support his teammates in achieving big goals.
Geraint Thomas praises the balance and value of the renewals
Director of Racing Geraint Thomas said it is brilliant to have all five riders continue. He highlighted the experience and tactical awareness of Kwiatkowski, the reliability of Heiduk and Rivera, the versatility and spirit Hamilton adds, and the leadership Swift brings as the team’s elder statesman.
Thomas noted that each rider contributes something different and that all will be key to the ambitions of the Grenadiers in 2026.
The collective renewals underline the team’s commitment to continuity, depth and experience, setting a clear foundation for the next phase of their project.
