Thomas, the 2018 Tour de France winner under the team’s former guise of Team Sky, finished on Grand Tour podiums three other times.

He also helped Chris Froome and Sir Bradley Wiggins win the prestigious three-week race around France as they dominated the event, winning it seven times between 2012 and 2019.

Brailsford, who returned to a more hands-on role at Ineos earlier this year having previously stepped down his involvement to take up a position at Manchester United, will be hoping Thomas can help revive their fortunes.

“He knows what the process takes, how to deal with the highs and lows of elite sport and his willingness to now share this and mentor others to do the same is a great asset for the team,” added 61-year-old.

“The fact that he has stayed so humble and always maintained a great sense of humour are also great attributes to bring to his new role.”

Former Whitchurch High School pupil Thomas was also successful on the track, winning Olympic gold in Beijing, China, in 2008 and London in 2012.

He also enjoyed success for Wales at the Commonwealth Games.

Thomas’ career began in his home city of Cardiff as a child and ended there in September as the 2025 Tour of Britain concluded.

Ineos stated Thomas “will work closely with Sir Dave Brailsford, Dr Scott Drawer – and the rest of the senior management team, providing crucial input into race strategy, rider recruitment, development and race readiness”.

The team’s statement added: “His appointment reflects the team’s long-term commitment to building from within, harnessing his immense knowledge of the sport and what it takes to win, for the benefit of his fellow Grenadiers.”