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New Ineos CEO believes Ineos can dominate cycling once more
John Allert, the newly appointed CEO of Ineos Grenadiers, expresses optimism about the team entering an exciting new phase after a season of changes. Despite now being in the position of “the hunter” rather than the “hunted,” Allert sees no obstacles preventing the team from reclaiming their top position.
Having previously served as the chief marketing officer at McLaren F1, Allert now leads the revamped Ineos Grenadiers, formerly known as Team Sky. The team underwent significant changes over the winter, including the resignation of Rod Ellingworth and Sir Dave Brailsford stepping down as team principal to focus on his broader role as Ineos director of sport.
Allert emphasizes that Brailsford remains a pivotal figure, referring to him as the “godfather” of the team established in 2009, and notes that Brailsford will continue to contribute from an Ineos perspective. Allert assures that Ineos is committed to the team for the long term, with no specified timeline for this commitment.
Addressing claims by Johan Bruyneel, the former US Postal manager, that Ineos Grenadiers’ budget had been reduced by €10 million (£8.56 million) following a review of rider salaries, Allert dismisses these suggestions.
John Allert, the recently appointed CEO of Ineos Grenadiers, addresses discussions about the team’s budget, asserting that they possess a budget deemed sufficient for winning grand tour races, whether or not it is the largest in the sport. He emphasizes that there has been no reduction or dilution of their budget, and it meets all their needs. Allert highlights Ineos’ unwavering commitment to cycling, with no specified time limit on this commitment.
Expressing enthusiasm about the current phase, Allert acknowledges that the team is now in the role of the hunter rather than the hunted as they enter a new season under new leadership. He notes the successful transition from previous leadership, highlighting the team’s optimism and positive start to the season.
Since assuming the role of CEO in the autumn, Allert’s main focus has been on implementing a more streamlined structure with the right individuals in appropriate positions. Directing the performance side will be performance director Dr. Scott Drawer, previously the head of sport at Millfield School, bringing knowledge of the UK Sport and Team GB system. Describing Drawer as a “proven disruptor and innovator,” Allert emphasizes his focus on research and innovation. A research and development (R&D) group under Drawer includes former Mercedes F1 aerodynamicist and hour record holder Dan Bigham.
In terms of talent acquisition, Ineos Grenadiers reportedly made attempts to sign notable riders such as Remco Evenepoel and Primoz Roglic last year, but according to Allert, he refrains from confirming them as missed targets, labeling the year 2023 as somewhat of a “soap opera” without delving into further gossip. He clarifies that future transfers will be collectively approved, involving input from Brailsford and Ineos Sport in the decision-making process.
Effectively, Ineos Grenadiers commence the 2024 season with the same squad as the previous year, excluding departures like Pavel Sivakov, Dani Martínez, and Tao Geoghegan Hart.
Allert acknowledges the challenge of competing with riders of the caliber of Jonas Vingegaard or Tadej Pogacar in the short term but expresses confidence in the leadership capabilities of Geraint Thomas, Carlos Rodríguez, Egan Bernal, and Tom Pidcock for 2024. He mentions a “phenomenal next generation of rider” emerging, citing European time trial champion Josh Tarling as an example.
Highlighting the team’s objectives, Allert emphasizes achieving top positions in the Tour de France and other grand tours. He acknowledges the competition’s intensity and clarifies that the team’s focus has always been on grand tours, emphasizing the continuity of this ambition from previous ownership into the Ineos era.
This identity brings a clear focus, particularly evident to team members. Our primary objective is to be a General Classification (GC) team, with the ultimate goal of standing atop the podium. That’s our singular focus.
