Pro cycling teams 2026: will INEOS Grenadiers be GC powerhouse again?
As the 2026 cycling season gets underway, WielerFlits takes a close look at the top teams in the peloton. In the series Cycling Teams 2026, we introduce these squads based on transfers, rosters, and objectives. Today, it’s INEOS Grenadiers' turn. What can we expect from Thymen Arensman, Oscar Onley, and Egan Bernal?
Review of 2025
Thymen Arensman saved the 2025 season for the British team. The Dutchman won two stages at the Tour de France, earning him the title of rider of the year at INEOS Grenadiers. The team also enjoyed a strong Vuelta, with victories from Egan Bernal, Ben Turner, and Joshua Tarling.
However, 2025 was somewhat challenging for Dave Brailsford’s squad. The team, once dominant in general classifications, didn’t achieve better than seventh place for Egan Bernal at the Giro d'Italia, and two third places for Thymen Arensman and Filippo Ganna at Paris-Nice and Tirreno-Adriatico.
Transfers
INEOS Grenadiers has significantly strengthened over the winter. To reclaim their status as a GC powerhouse, they invested heavily in Oscar Onley, while Tour breakaway specialist Kevin Vauquelin also joined the team. Additionally, climbers Embret Svestad-Bardseng and Jack Haig bolster the roster. The most notable departure is Caleb Ewan.
Ambitions
- Reestablish themselves as a dominant force in Grand Tours
- Win time trials with Filippo Ganna, and also with Thymen Arensman
- Secure classic victories with Filippo Ganna, Ben Turner, or Joshua Tarling
Our Expectations
Nick Doup (WielerFlits reporter): "I don’t dare to expect too much from INEOS Grenadiers. Newcomer Oscar Onley reportedly overperformed at last year’s Tour, and with his multimillion price tag, the pressure is definitely on him. If he can take another step forward, a top-5 GC spot should be within reach again."
"Thymen Arensman can show great potential again if he races with confidence. If he targets a general classification in a grand tour, I think a top-10 finish is the highest realistic goal for now. A podium might be tough unless he feels completely free after last year’s experience."
"I have high hopes for Filippo Ganna. Maybe he can strike at Paris-Roubaix this year? I think Carlos Rodriguez will be the season’s disappointment. It will be tough for him to replicate his past years’ performances. I believe Ben Turner can build on his strong 2025 thanks to his power and sprinting, especially in the spring. My bold prediction is that the team will land on the podium of a grand tour once and claim a classic victory."
