As already announced since May, Luke Rowe will end his career as a cyclist at the end of the 2024 season… but the 34-year-old Briton will still remain in the world of professional cycling next year! The team’s iconic runner INEOS Grenadiers didn’t take long to find a new professional project since the team Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale revealed this Monday that Natfi Cardiff would integrate its technical staff as sporting director from November 1st. Essential and exemplary road captain for 13 years within the British structure, Luke Rowe will bring his invaluable high-level experience and his know-how to the Savoyard training, particularly on the Grand Tours and the cobbled Classics. An additional step in the development and internationalization of the French WorldTeam, author of a remarkable 2024 season and which intends to continue its rise in the years to come.
Video – Julien Jurdie will have Luke Rowe at his side at Decathlon AG2R
Luke Rowe, future sporting director of the team: “The project appealed to me”
“I took the time to think about my future and the rest of my career. The Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale project appealed to me because of the team’s performances this year but also because it is a project for the future. I will be keen to bring my experience from years past at the highest level and to support the riders, particularly on the classics. The other part of this new project is the ambition for the team to become more international. Obviously there is some incredible French talent but, with this approach, the team can also be a very attractive option for English speakers and international riders looking to join..”
Dominique Serieys, general director of Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale : “A substantial experience on the classics”
“The meeting with Luke Rowe happened naturally. He is someone who will bring us his experience with his thirteen years spent at INEOS Grenadiers. He was one of the core riders of his training on the Flandrian classics such as Paris-Roubaix, or even on the Ardennes classics. This will allow the team to strengthen itself in preparation for these major events which are objectives for the seasons to come. Luke will be at the heart of the classics group with the various training courses and specific preparations put in place in order to perform in these races. This is a higher step in the structuring of the sports center and the support of young people towards the highest level..”
