Team INEOS confirmed today that they will not be renewing Chris Froome’s contract at the end of this season.

Team Israel Start-Up Nation subsequently announced that the four-time Tour de France winner will lead their team, starting next season. The team confirmed that the Briton will sign a long-term contract on August 1st.

In addition to his four Tour de France wins, Froome has also won the Vuelta d’España twice (2017, 2011), the Giro d’Italia (2018), the Critérium du Dauphiné three times (2016, 2015, 2013) the Tour de Romandie twice (2014, 2013) and seven stages of the Tour de France.

Chris Froome said: “It has been a phenomenal decade with the team, we have achieved so much together and I will always treasure the memories. I look forward to exciting new challenges as I move into the next phase of my career but in the meantime my focus is on winning a fifth Tour de France with Team INEOS.”

Dave Brailsford said: “Chris’s current contract comes to an end in December and we have taken the decision now not to renew it. We are making this announcement earlier than would usually be the case to put an end to recent speculation and allow the team to focus on the season ahead.

“Chris has been with us from the start. He is a great champion and we have shared many memorable moments over the years but I do believe this is the right decision for the team and for Chris. Given his achievements in the sport, Chris is understandably keen to have sole team leadership in the next chapter of his career – which is not something we are able to guarantee him at this point. A move away from Team INEOS can give him that certainty.

“At the same time, it will also give other members of our team the leadership opportunities they too have earned and are rightly seeking. I am excited about the talent we have right across the team at the current time and all our collective focus is on preparing for the season ahead. Like everyone across the sport we are all looking forward to the start of racing next month.”

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