Netcompany Ineos to Adopt AI Aerodynamics for 2027
The professional cycling team will replace some physical wind tunnel testing with a digital simulation tool.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Cycling
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Netcompany Ineos plans to utilize the AiRO aerodynamics platform for team testing throughout the 2027 season. This digital tool allows riders to perform virtual aerodynamic assessments without the need for traditional wind tunnel facilities.
Why it matters
By adopting virtual simulation, the team aims to conduct high-frequency aerodynamic testing for its full roster while bypassing the significant time and financial constraints of physical wind tunnel sessions.
The AiRO application, which launched its Vayu tool in October 2026, enables the rapid simulation of 400 virtual wind tunnel tests at a cost of approximately $200 per session.
The players
Netcompany Ineos
A professional cycling team that competes at the highest level of the sport.
AiRO
A U.S.-based aerodynamics firm that develops AI-driven digital twin simulations for competitive sports.
The details
The software creates a 3D digital twin of a cyclist using standard photographs to run aerodynamic experiments. This virtual model allows teams to test over 20 different helmet configurations or 100 minor positional adjustments simultaneously without the rider being physically present. By simulating these variables in a digital environment, teams can optimize equipment and posture significantly faster than in physical testing settings.
Timeline
AiRO was founded 14 months ago.
The Vayu simulation tool launched in October 2026.
Full details of the partnership are expected next week.
Netcompany Ineos will deploy the software during the 2027 season.
Health Landscape
This move reflects a broader trend in professional athletics toward utilizing AI-based digital twins to maximize performance efficiency. It effectively updates the traditional reliance on physical computational fluid dynamics testing by offering a more accessible, lower-cost virtual alternative.
While this technology is currently reserved for professional teams, the broader application of 3D modeling could eventually improve accessibility for high-level amateur athletes. Interested individuals should consult a professional bike fitter or coach to understand how aerodynamic adjustments currently impact their own cycling efficiency.
The takeaway
The integration of AI into aerodynamic testing represents a major shift toward high-volume, cost-effective performance optimization. For your own training, focus on consistent body positioning and regular equipment maintenance to achieve marginal gains in efficiency.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving technology behind elite athlete performance, visit our Cycling section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cyclingnews.
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