Meanwhile, the links to Jack Haig have been reported elsewhere in the cycling press, with multiple outlets suggesting he is close to reaching an agreement after not being renewed by Bahrain Victorious.
An Australian double move that fits Thomas’ new direction
Haig’s situation has been bubbling for weeks following Bahrain Victorious’ decision not to renew his contract. Multiple outlets have placed INEOS as the strongest candidate for the 32-year-old climber, whose experience and consistency would instantly strengthen the team’s stage-race depth.
For a squad redefining its GC identity and moving away from the drift of recent years, Haig’s profile fits neatly into Thomas’ desire for greater clarity, professionalism and rider ownership.
Welsford, meanwhile, is the one case where the reporting is clear and confirmed: Scognamiglio reports that Team Jayco AlUla were deep into negotiations but failed to finalise terms, allowing INEOS to re-enter the picture and push for a deal. The Australian has emerged as one of the peloton’s most powerful sprinters, and his arrival would give INEOS their first true top-end finisher since the short-lived flirtation with another Aussie — Caleb Ewan — in early 2025 before his surprise retirement.
Caleb Ewan took 2 wins in a short-lived spell at INEOS in early 2025
Both potential signings match the cultural tone Thomas has already set. Speaking recently on the Watts Occurring podcast, he made it clear that the narrative of INEOS being stuck in transition must stop. “Transition’s over now, mate. This is where we’re going. This is what we’re doing,” he said, accusing the label of becoming “an excuse for not performing.”
Thomas also emphasised simplicity, accountability and elite habits. “A simple life is an elite life,” he said, urging riders to eliminate the chaos that undermines performance. His pointed line — “You don’t want a team of princesses, that’s for sure” — highlighted his impatience with over-protected or passive riders.
Haig and Welsford, both known for their straightforward professionalism, fit that ethos perfectly.
A clearer identity emerging for 2026
If both deals go through, INEOS would be addressing two areas of need in one sweep: experienced climbing support and a world-class finisher. Welsford’s arrival, in particular, would be a strategic shift after several seasons without a dedicated pure sprinter.
Combined with Thomas’ arrival as Director of Racing — and his repeated insistence that excuses are no longer acceptable — these signings would represent the first real sign that the Grenadiers’ reset is moving from rhetoric to reality.
With several roster questions still unresolved, including the Derek Gee situation, INEOS’ 2026 puzzle is far from complete. But the Australian pairing would be a decisive start.