Another transfer bombshell: Filippo Ganna leaves INEOS and joins Lidl-Trek until 2029

Lidl-Trek continues to build one of the most ambitious projects in the international peloton. The team has confirmed the signing of Filippo Ganna for the next three seasons, until the end of 2029. The Italian, double world champion in the time trial and Olympic champion, leaves INEOS after eight years to join a roster where he will share the team with Mads Pedersen, Jonathan Milan, and Juan Ayuso.

Ganna wants to win major classics with Lidl-Trek

The move has been in the works for days, but it represents one of the most important operations of this transfer market. Ganna, 30 years old, had a contract with Netcompany INEOS until the end of 2027, so his arrival at Lidl-Trek means an early exit from the British structure. 

The incorporation comes just a few days after the confirmation of Giulio Ciccone's move to Pinarello Q36.5, where he will race alongside Tom Pidcock. Two moves that reflect the profound transformation Lidl-Trek is undergoing ahead of 2027.

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Although his greatest successes have come against the clock, Ganna approaches this team change with the major classics as one of his main objectives.

The Italian has two world time trial titles, eight stage wins in the Giro d'Italia, and two more in the Vuelta a España. He has also demonstrated his ability in one-day races, with two second places in Milan-San Remo and a spectacular victory in A Travers Flandres in 2026.

His palmarès also includes the Olympic gold in team pursuit from Tokyo and the hour record, which he still holds.

"After eight years with my current team, opening a new chapter is something very beautiful and I feel very motivated for the next season", Ganna explained in the official statement.

The Italian does not hide his ambitions: "I have big goals that I hope to achieve with Lidl-Trek, especially in the classics. With the team we will have, nothing is out of our reach".

The grand tours will also continue to be part of his calendar, both to seek individual opportunities and to work in service of the team's leaders.

A team with Pedersen, Milan, and Ayuso

One of the most interesting aspects of the signing is Ganna's potential within a roster that already includes some of the most powerful cyclists in the WorldTour.

His relationship with Jonathan Milan and Simone Consonni comes from the Italian track team, while he also regularly trains with Matteo Sobrero. This connection may facilitate his integration and make him an important piece of Milan's launch train.

In the classics, his combination with Mads Pedersen opens new tactical possibilities. Ganna has acknowledged that the Dane will continue to be a fundamental reference within the team and hopes that both can help each other achieve their goals.

Additionally, there is the presence of Juan Ayuso, Mattias Skjelmose, and new reinforcements for the mountains, such as Felix Gall.

Andy Schleck, CEO of Lidl-Trek, believes that the Italian can make a difference in practically all terrains. The former Tour de France winner particularly highlights his ability to contest individual victories while also playing a decisive role in service of his teammates.

With Ganna's arrival, Lidl-Trek adds another top-level figure to its project for 2027, especially strengthening its presence in time trials and classics. His signing also represents a significant loss for INEOS, which loses one of its most recognizable riders after eight seasons.