Ineos Grenadiers have extended the contracts of stage racing veterans Connor Swift and Jonathan Castroviejo. The WorldTour team announced the deals on 10th July. Castroviejo signed a one-year extension, while Swift secured a two-year deal.
Castroviejo, currently supporting his teammates at the Tour de France, expressed satisfaction with his new contract. “It feels good to have everything sorted and to have clarity for next season. I wanted to stay with the team and it makes me happy to know I’ll be here for another year,” said the six-time Spanish time trial national champion. The 37-year-old Spaniard will now be with the team through 2025, marking his eighth season.
Swift, who helped Geraint Thomas secure third place at this year’s Giro d’Italia, also shared his excitement. “I feel like I have settled into the team nicely over the last couple of years and I always wanted to stay here. I enjoy being part of a team that always strives to win every race and has that all-in approach every time we line up,” Swift mentioned in a team statement.
Season Goals and Team Camaraderie
Swift has his sights set on strong performances in the Spring Classics and hopes to be part of the Tour de France squad. “My goals for the next two seasons are to have strong and successful Spring Classics campaigns, be part of the Team’s Tour de France squad, and look to get that stripy nationals jersey back on my shoulders again. These are the goals that I know will push and drive me,” revealed the 28-year-old, who has competed in four Grand Tours.
Castroviejo, part of the current Tour de France squad in Orléans, is contributing to the success of teammates Carlos Rodríguez and Egan Bernal, who are positioned seventh and 13th overall, respectively. This year’s Tour is his seventh French Grand Tour with Ineos and the 10th of his career, having moved from Movistar to Ineos (then Sky) in 2018.
Team Insights
Both riders have proven themselves valuable to the team, with Ineos Grenadiers Performance Director, Scott Drawer, recognising their contributions. “We believe that Connor is just coming into his prime as a bike rider and that’s really exciting for us, as well as for him. He’s taken his skills and stepped up a level at this year’s Giro d’Italia helping the team fight for the GC. His versatility also means that under the right circumstances, he can also challenge for his own opportunities which is exciting,” Drawer stated.
“Jonathan is somebody who embodies the spirit and values of being a Grenadier; his experience and leadership are invaluable within our group. Our mix of exciting young talent and experience needs the likes of Jonathan, and others, not only to deliver in the biggest races but to continue to transfer their knowledge and skills onto the younger riders in our group,” Drawer added.
Swift joined Ineos from Arkéa-Samsic, having started his pro career with Madison-Genesis and a short stint as a trainee with Dimension Data. His cousin, Ben Swift, is also with Ineos. “If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from being with my Grenadier teammates, it’s never give up and always believe in yourself. I’m looking forward to seeing what the next two seasons hold,” said Swift.
