INEOS officially confirm key contract extensions for 2026

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s tenure as co-owner overseeing Manchester United’s football operations has centred on rebuilding standards across the club.

The £1.3 billion Old Trafford redevelopment plan has become the clearest symbol of that ambition.

He has pushed forward with transforming the stadium into a modern 100,000-seater venue, insisting that United must once again operate at the level of the world’s biggest sporting institutions.

His strategy has also extended across the wider INEOS sporting portfolio, where continuity, elite culture, and long-term planning remain core themes.

That same philosophy flowed into cycling this week.

As the INEOS Grenadiers confirmed a series of significant contract extensions designed to stabilise and strengthen their roster ahead of the 2026 season, the official website confirmed.

Michal Kwiatkowski signed a new three-year deal, extending his decorated spell with the team into a second decade and keeping one of the peloton’s most respected all-rounders at the heart of the squad.

“It feels natural to stay,” said Kwiatkowski. “I love the atmosphere, the people and the way we work… This team has been my home for so many years, and I still feel the same hunger and motivation.”

Ben Swift also renewed for another year, ensuring that his experience as a double British champion continues to guide the Grenadiers’ younger riders.

“This team has been such a big part of my life… I can’t wait to kick off the 2026 season,” said Swift.

Lucas Hamilton committed to two more years after impressing in stage races and Grand Tours, describing the team as “home” and expressing belief in its future direction.

Kim Heiduk earned a one-year extension for his growing reliability in the classics and support roles, saying he felt “like a family” within the squad.

Brandon Rivera also renewed for a further season, maintaining his place in the climbing group and praising the team’s environment as “a new opportunity to grow and give my best.”

Director of Racing Geraint Thomas emphasised that all five riders bring “something a bit different” and will be vital to the Grenadiers’ goals next year.

Highlighting Kwiatkowski’s leadership, Swift’s experience, Hamilton’s versatility, and the steady progression shown by Heiduk and Rivera.

Under Ratcliffe’s ownership umbrella, the message across United and INEOS remains consistent: surround elite talent with stability, structure, and ambition, and build sustainably for long-term success on every front.