Australian cycling has been dealt a massive blow, with dual Olympic silver medallist Matthew Richardson to switch nationalities and compete for Great Britain at international events.
The British-born sprinter rode for Australia at the recent Olympics, picking up three medals in Paris: silver in both the men's keirin and sprint, plus a bronze in the men's team sprint with Matt Glaetzer and Leigh Hoffman.
Hot on the heels of his Paris success, Richardson recently found out his application to change nationality for future competition had been approved by the Union Cycliste Internationale.
The sprint star said it had been a tough decision and he thanked AusCycling, his coaches and teammates for their contribution to his career."Switching nationality was a difficult decision, and not one I took lightly,'' Richardson said on social media.
"It was a personal choice, made after careful consideration of my career and future. It’s not something I decided on quickly or easily.
“I deeply respect Australia and the Australian cycling team, and it will always be a part of who I am. As this new chapter in my life begins, I would like to sincerely thank the coaches and support staff who have worked with me over many years in Australia.
"I want to say a huge thank you to my teammates for everything we've been through together. You've been there for the highs and the lows, and I'm so grateful for all the support, laughter, and hard work we've shared.
“I hope you can understand and support me as I continue to give my best in the sport I love.
Richardson's decision naturally brought contrasting reactions from both nations, with Great Britain's delight counterpointed by Australian disappointment.
"Welcome to the team, Matt,'' British Cycling said in a post on social media platform X.
AusCycling executive general manager of performance, Jesse Korf, said it was disappointing the 25-year-old was leaving a program that had delivered great personal and national success.
“The announcement of Matt’s switch is disappointing and came as a surprise,'' Korf said.
"We also understand that the desire to compete for a country one was born in can bring forth strong emotions."
Richardson was born in Maidstone, England and moved to Australia at the age of nine.
He began cycling in his early teens in Perth and so obvious was his talent that he was recruited to the Western Australia Institute of Sport (WAIS). A rapid rise through the ranks saw Richardson win under-19 national titles in sprint and team sprint in 2017, before his first national team representation later that year at the Junior Track World Championships. His time in Australian colours also brought a team sprint world championship in 2022, and two Commonwealth Games gold medals.
