Geraint Thomas, an Olympian and Tour de France winner, has been confirmed as the first rider for the 2025 Santos Tour Down Under. The announcement was made by the South Australian Tourism Commission, indicating that next year’s event will mark a significant appearance by the Welsh cyclist, potentially his last in a WorldTour season.
Thomas, aged 38, boasts a prestigious career including the 2018 Tour de France win and titles in the Critérium du Dauphiné, Paris-Nice, Tour de Suisse, and Tour de Romandie. His Olympic achievements include two gold medals in the team pursuit and three World Championships in the same discipline.
The 2025 Santos Tour Down Under, representing his tenth participation since 2007, could be his final showing in South Australia, as his current contract with team INEOS Grenadiers is set to expire at the end of the year. Incredibly, next season will be his 16th with team INEOS Grenadiers (formerly Team Sky) and, with his contract expiring at the end of 2025, Thomas has hinted at retirement. Thomas shared his appreciation for the event and the local supporters. “I have always loved coming to South Australia and enjoying the warm reception from fans,” he stated. “The chance to kick start the season in an event I’m now familiar with is a great bonus.”
Stuart O’Grady, Race Director of the Santos Tour Down Under, spoke about the value Thomas brings to the race. “Geraint Thomas is no stranger to the Santos Tour Down Under and brings his wealth of experience every time he races here,” O’Grady said. He continued, “We know there will be plenty of fans keen for another glimpse of the star rider, and we are confident he’ll put in a strong performance.”
The event next year will be particularly special as it marks the 25th anniversary of the Santos Tour Down Under. The men’s race schedule includes a variety of stages such as the Down Under Classic in the Adelaide city centre, followed by multiple stages that travel from Prospect to Gumeracha, Tanunda back to Tanunda, Norwood to Uraidla, Glenelg to Victor Harbor, and McLaren Vale to Willunga Hill, culminating with a final stage back in Adelaide’s CBD.
Scheduled from the 17th to 26th of January 2025, the competition will span nine days featuring both men’s and women’s elite racing events.
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