Track cyclist Matt Richardson, who won three medals for Australia at the Paris Olympics, has announced his switch to representing Great Britain. The 25-year-old, originally from Kent but who lived in Western Australia from age nine, held dual citizenship throughout his 16 years there. He will now join Great Britain's sprint squad, which is guided by Sir Jason Kenny, a seven-time Olympic gold medallist.
Richardson shared his decision on Instagram after receiving approval from cycling's governing body, the Union Cycliste Internationale. He described the choice as "difficult" and emphasized that it was made after careful consideration of his career and future aspirations. Despite his respect for Australia and the AusCycling Team, he expressed a strong desire to pursue his passion and seek new challenges.
Jesse Korf, AusCycling's executive general manager of performance, expressed surprise and disappointment at Richardson's decision, noting that he would be leaving a program that had achieved significant personal and national success. Korf acknowledged that such decisions are often driven by deep personal motivations and emotional connections to one's country of birth.
At the Paris Olympics, Richardson earned silver medals in both the individual sprint and keirin events, along with a bronze in the team sprint. His move to Great Britain marks a significant change in his competitive trajectory as he aims to reach new heights in his cycling career.
ADD A COMMENT :