Viviani and Impey join Ineos staff following Geraint Thomas appointment

Viviani, who retired from racing at the end of 2025, returns to the British squad where he previously raced during two separate stints from 2015-2017 and 2022-2024. 

The 36-year-old Italian enjoyed a decorated career on the road with 90 professional victories, including stages at all three Grand Tours and the 2019 European Championship title, as well as an Olympic and three-time World Champion on the track.

"I'm thrilled to return to the team that has always felt like home, firstly as a rider but now as part of the staff," said Viviani. "I want to give my absolute best to support the riders and share everything I've learned throughout my career. The team is entering a new era, and I'm excited to be part of this challenge."

Impey, who retired in 2023 after a 16-year professional career, made history as the first African rider to wear the yellow jersey at the Tour de France in 2013. 

The South African national champion also claimed a Tour stage victory in 2019, among 30 professional wins, and has since established himself as a Sports Director in recent seasons at the team formerly known as Israel-Premier Tech.

"I'm really looking forward to working with the riders and staff and playing a part in the team's ambitions for the future," Impey said. "I've raced against the Ineos Grenadiers for many years - and even alongside some of the staff earlier in my career - so it's great to now be working together."

The appointments follow Thursday's announcement that Geraint Thomas will remain with the team as Director of Racing after the 2018 Tour de France champion retired from racing following the Tour of Britain in early September. 

Zak Dempster, who served as a Sports Director for the British team in 2025, has moved to Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe for the 2026 season. Impey reunites with Thomas, having been teammates together at Barloworld in 2008-2009.

"Having started my career as a teammate of Geraint's, it's really special to be reunited now as colleagues," Impey added. "When the opportunity came to join a team with such a clear mission and vision, it was an easy decision to join. I'm excited to get started and hit the ground running in the new year."

Thomas expressed confidence in the new appointments. "Elia and Daryl are excellent additions to our team. Their experience, professionalism and leadership qualities will add real value to the Ineos Grenadiers," he said.

"They will also bring fresh ideas and perspectives into an established environment, which is really important for our growth as a team, as we continue to challenge ourselves in every area."