Geraint Thomas first confirmed starter for 2025
Olympian and Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas is locked in as the first confirmed rider for next year’s Santos Tour Down Under. The Welshman will be competing in what could be his last WorldTour season, giving fans the chance to see the global superstar in South Australia for possibly the last time.
Thomas’ list of achievements is extensive, having claimed the 2018 Tour de France title, plus overall victories in the Critérium du Dauphiné, Paris-Nice, Tour de Swisse and Tour de Romandie. This is in addition to two Olympic gold medals in the team pursuit, alongside three World Championships victories in the discipline.
The 38-year-old veteran will be racing in his tenth Santos Tour Down Under in 2025 – an association stretching back to 2007. His strongest result was a third placing overall in 2013, which included a Stage 2 victory.
Incredibly, next season will be his 16th with team INEOS Grenadiers (formerly Team Sky) and, with his contract expiring at the end of 2025, Thomas has hinted at retirement. This means next year’s Santos Tour Down Under could be the last time locals will see the supremely talented cyclist racing in South Australia.
“I have always loved coming to South Australia and enjoying the warm reception from fans,” Thomas said. “The chance to kick start the season in an event I’m now familiar with is a great bonus.”
Santos Tour Down Under Race Director Stuart O’Grady says Thomas’ inclusion is a terrific way to start the list of confirmed riders.
“Geraint Thomas is no stranger to the Santos Tour Down Under and brings his wealth of experience every time he races here,” O’Grady said. “We know there will be plenty of fans keen for another glimpse of the star rider, and we are confident he’ll put in a strong performance.”
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Santos Tour Down Under. The men’s race will feature the Down Under Classic in the city, followed by Stage 1 from Prospect to Gumeracha, Stage 2 from Tanunda to Tanunda, Stage 3 from Norwood to Uraidla, Stage 4 from Glenelg to Victor Harbor, Stage 5 from McLaren Vale to Willunga Hill, before Stage 6 returns to Adelaide’s CBD.
This rider announcement is brought to you by Hays.
