TI-RALEIGH
Between the 1970s and 1980s, few teams embodied the concept of dominance like TI-Raleigh. The Anglo-Dutch squad, active from 1972 to 1983, established itself as one of the most successful teams of its time, combining talent, innovation, and meticulous race strategy. The team excelled both in Grand Tours and the Northern Classics, cementing its status as a dominant force in both road and track cycling.
Origins and sponsors
Founded in 1972, TI-Raleigh became one of the most successful teams in professional cycling history, shaping the international racing scene for over a decade. The team was initially conceived as a marketing project by the historic British bicycle manufacturer Raleigh, which had merged with the Tube Investments group, giving rise to the “TI” prefix in the team’s name. This commercial strategy proved to be a success, strengthening Raleigh’s presence in the European market and associating the brand with prestigious victories. The team’s iconic yellow, red, and black jersey soon became synonymous with dominance on both the road and track. In 1982, the squad received additional support with the entry of Campagnolo as a co-sponsor. TI-Raleigh was also a pioneer in jersey innovation, introducing nylon-blended fabrics in the early 1980s. This revolutionary material provided better wind resistance while maintaining breathability and comfort, giving the riders an edge in tough conditions.
Triumphs and legends
Under the strict and strategic leadership of former champion Peter Post, the team developed a highly methodical tactical approach, particularly excelling in time trials and the Northern Classics. This management model, though sometimes criticized for its rigidity, enabled TI-Raleigh to secure an impressive number of victories. Among the many champions who wore the TI-Raleigh jersey were Jan Raas, Gerrie Knetemann, Johan van der Velde, Frank Hoste, Ludo Peeters, and Joop Zoetemelk. Zoetemelk, already known for his stage racing abilities, achieved the greatest triumph of his career with TI-Raleigh, winning the 1980 Tour de France — fulfilling a dream he had pursued for over a decade after multiple podium finishes. Jan Raas, on the other hand, became one of the team’s brightest stars, claiming victories in major Classics such as Paris-Roubaix, the Tour of Flanders, and a remarkable four Amstel Gold Race titles. The 1982 season was particularly outstanding for the team, especially at the Tour de France, where TI-Raleigh won six stages, including the 69 km team time trial from Lorient to Plumelec. Individual victories came from Knetemann, Raas, Peeters, and Hoste, while team leader Johan van der Velde finished on the final podium, securing third place overall behind Bernard Hinault and Joop Zoetemelk, who had by then moved to Coop-Mercier.
The legacy
TI-Raleigh disbanded in 1983, but its legacy in professional cycling remains significant to this day. Its methodical approach and focus on technology influenced the way modern teams are managed, while its dominance in the Classics and time trials left a lasting impact on the sport’s history. The team’s victories and the charisma of its champions continue to inspire cycling enthusiasts and collectors, who still seek out the yellow, red, and black jersey as a symbol of a golden era in road cycling.
Santini Custom Series
Since 1965, we have dedicated our passion and expertise to cycling, creating kits for some of the greatest teams in history and for the champions who have written the most thrilling chapters of this sport. Every garment we produce embodies the experience and innovation we have refined over the years, designed to meet the needs of those who live cycling with the same intensity — whether professionals or amateurs. Today, we bring this heritage to you, ensuring that every ride is accompanied by the quality and dedication that define us.