Pidcock signs for ambitious second-tier cycling team

PARIS: Two-time Olympic champion Tom Pidcock announced on Friday he had signed for second-tier cycling team Q36.5 after his departure from Ineos Grenadiers.

The Briton ended his four-year spell at elite outfit Ineos earlier this week and has signed a three-year deal with Q36.5. “This isn´t just a change of jersey -- it´s the start of something special,” said Pidcock of joining a team that was only formed in 2023.

“The chance to work with a team that´s growing, with incredible partners and brands, is something that motivates me. I can´t wait to see what we´ll achieve together.” Pidcock enjoyed a successful year, winning his second consecutive Olympic mountain bike gold medal with a dramatic comeback victory after suffering a puncture earlier in the race.

He also won the prestigious Amstel Gold Race and Strade Bianche one-day classics. The 25-year-old has previously made his mark on stage races, including a memorable win on the Alpe d´Huez during the 2022 Tour de France. Pidcock, though, said he was “de-selected” by Ineos for the Tour of Lombardy in October, when he would have been one of the favourites.