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Australia Anticipates Two-Year Ban for Matt Richardson After Switch to British Cycling Team

Posted : 21 August 2024

Australia's cycling organization expects the UCI, the global governing body for cycling, to enforce a two-year ban on Matt Richardson from competing in international events under Britain's flag after he announced his decision to switch allegiance. Richardson, who secured three medals for Australia at the Paris velodrome, revealed his move to join the "Great British Cycling Team" on Monday, sparking reactions from both Australia and the international cycling community.

 

According to UCI rules, cyclists who change national teams are ineligible to represent their new country in the next edition of world and continental championships. AusCycling has stated that they believe the UCI will uphold this rule, preventing Richardson from competing for Britain in international competitions for the next two years. The Switzerland-based UCI did not immediately respond to requests for comment, while AusCycling continues to seek clarity on the non-competition period.

 

Jesse Korf, AusCycling’s executive general manager of performance, expressed disappointment over Richardson's decision and the lack of communication regarding the circumstances surrounding the switch. He confirmed that Richardson would not be competing in the upcoming world championships and that the specifics of the non-competition period are currently being reviewed in collaboration with the UCI and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), Australia's primary sports funding agency.

 

Richardson's unexpected change of allegiance has stirred mixed reactions in Australia, particularly from former elite cyclists. Katherine Bates, a former world champion, mentioned that some local cyclists felt "a little bit ripped off," given the resources invested in developing the England-born 25-year-old in Australia. However, Richardson dismissed the criticism, emphasizing that his achievements, including two silver medals and a bronze at the Olympic Games, were a strong return on Australia's investment in his career.

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