AUGUST TURNS PRO WITH THE INEOS GRENADIERS

The 18-year-old from Rochester, New York, USA, has impressed in the junior ranks, both on the road and in cyclo-cross, and will now take his first steps as a professional as an INEOS Grenadier in 2024.

August is no stranger to the team, having spent time with the Grenadiers in a training camp at the start of the year. He went on to have an excellent 2023 season including a stage win and second overall at the Redlands Bicycle Classic, and a stunning victory at the Ain Bugey Valromey Tour, which concluded with a summit finish on Grand Colombier.

August will follow a similar path to fellow American Magnus Sheffield, who he knows well, having both ridden for the Hot Tubes cycling team: "Magnus has been key – he’s someone that I can look to for advice. But regardless of him being in the team, it's still the perfect environment for me," he said.

"I had the opportunity to go on a team camp in January and could immediately see just how professionally it is run. Of course it's a big jump to come to the team straight out of juniors but the team’s approach gives me the confidence that it's the right thing to do."

The pre-season period will see August integrate as a Grenadier and attend a further training camp to plan and prepare for his first season as a pro rider.

"I can't say there’s one particular race that I really want to target, but when the time is right I would like to maybe compete in a one-week World Tour stage race and see how I go.

"I’ve always been a good climber and I’ve enjoyed competing as a GC rider in the racing that I’ve done so far. My ambition would be the same in the pro ranks, but of course it will take some time to develop into that type of rider. I'm not afraid to discover and challenge myself in other areas too."

August has also competed in Alpine Skiing, is a Formula One fan and counts golf amongst his hobbies. The INEOS Grenadiers' Deputy Team Principal. Rod Ellingworth, is delighted to have August join the team: "AJ has really impressed us in the time we’ve spent with him, so we’re thrilled he’s agreed to become a Grenadier.

"We’ve been following his progress and results this season and he’s clearly demonstrated his talent. We believe that working together we can help him reach his full potential. He’s a talented young man and it’s obvious he also has a very good head on his shoulders.

"AJ joins an exciting group of extremely talented young riders at the INEOS Grenadiers, which bodes well for pursuing the ambitious goals we’ve set ourselves."