The cycling world was holding its breath as the Ineos Grenadiers faced a looming bike sponsor dilemma for 2026. But here's the surprising twist: the team has opted for the most predictable solution, extending their partnership with Pinarello for another three years. This decision, while expected by some, raises intriguing questions about brand loyalty, corporate influence, and the future of cycling sponsorships.
Pinarello, a long-standing partner of Ineos since its inception as Team Sky in 2010, has been a cornerstone of the team’s success. However, the landscape shifted when mining magnate Ivan Glasenberg acquired Pinarello in 2023. Glasenberg’s growing influence, coupled with his controlling stake in cycling apparel brand Q36.5, sparked speculation about Pinarello’s future commitments. And this is the part most people miss: Q36.5, the title sponsor of Tom Pidcock’s team, is currently supplied by Scott, though Pidcock himself rides a Pinarello mountain bike off-road. The natural assumption was that Glasenberg would align his brands, potentially leaving Ineos in the lurch.
Earlier this season, rumors swirled that Ineos might need to find a new bike supplier when their current deal with Pinarello expires at the end of 2025. Yet, Sir Dave Brailsford’s squad has secured Pinarello bikes through 2026-2029, ensuring continuity for the team. Daniel Benson of BikeRadar aptly noted in July that this renewal was “the most logical outcome,” but the dynamics behind the scenes are far from straightforward.
Fausto Pinarello, the brand’s figurehead, has all but confirmed that Pinarello will “double up” on sponsorships in 2026, supplying both Ineos and Q36.5. “It’s not nice to see our rider use other bikes,” Fausto remarked on the Tuttobiciweb podcast, referring to Pidcock, who moved from Ineos to Q36.5 in 2025. He added, “There’s a good chance Tom will also use our road bikes [in 2026].” This dual sponsorship is unusual in the cycling world, where brands rarely back two prominent teams simultaneously. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a strategic move to maximize exposure, or a risky gamble that could dilute brand loyalty?
Pidcock’s transfer to Q36.5 has breathed new life into the team, with the young star finishing third overall at the Vuelta a España and helping secure 14 victories in 2025, up from just five in 2024. If Q36.5 officially switches to Pinarello bikes, as expected, the Italian brand’s visibility in the pro peloton will skyrocket. However, this raises questions about the balance of power between sponsors and teams, and whether such dual partnerships are sustainable in the long term.
What do you think? Is Pinarello’s decision to sponsor both Ineos and Q36.5 a bold strategic move or a recipe for conflict? Will this set a precedent for other brands, or is it a unique case driven by Glasenberg’s influence? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your take on this evolving saga in the world of professional cycling.
