Just eight days after winning three medals for Australia at the Paris Olympics, track cyclist Matt Richardson has announced he will be switching teams to compete for Britain. This unexpected change of eligibility, approved by the International Cycling Union, has come as a surprise to the Australian cycling federation.
The 25-year-old Richardson, born in England but having moved to Australia at age nine, won a silver medal in the men’s keirin just hours before the closing ceremony of the Paris Games. He also secured a silver in sprint and a bronze in team sprint, adding to his impressive five world championship medals achieved while representing Australia.
While expressing disappointment, Australian cycling federation performance manager Jesse Korf acknowledged the emotional aspect of the decision. “We understand that the desire to compete for a country one was born in can bring forth strong emotions,” Korf stated.
Richardson himself emphasized the difficult nature of the decision, saying it was not something he took lightly. “I deeply respect Australia and the Australian cycling team, and it will always be a part of who I am,” he said in a statement released by his former federation.
The British cycling federation has welcomed Richardson to their team, posting a message on social media simply stating, “Welcome to the team, Matt.” This move will see Richardson competing for his birth country in future international competitions.
