Australian biking has been dealt a large blow, with twin Olympic silver medallist Matthew Richardson to change nationalities and compete for Nice Britain at worldwide occasions.
The British-born sprinter rode for Australia on the current Olympics, selecting up three medals in Paris: silver in each the lads’s keirin and dash, plus a bronze within the males’s staff dash with Matt Glaetzer and Leigh Hoffman.
Sizzling on the heels of his Paris success, Richardson just lately came upon his utility to vary nationality for future competitors had been accepted by the Union Cycliste Internationale.
The dash star stated it had been a tricky determination and he thanked AusCycling, his coaches and teammates for his or her contribution to his profession.”Switching nationality was a tough determination, and never one I took flippantly,” Richardson stated on social media.
“It was a private selection, made after cautious consideration of my profession and future. It’s not one thing I made a decision on rapidly or simply.
“I deeply respect Australia and the Australian biking staff, and it’ll at all times be part of who I’m. As this new chapter in my life begins, I wish to sincerely thank the coaches and assist employees who’ve labored with me over a few years in Australia.
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“I need to say an enormous thanks to my teammates for every thing we’ve been via collectively. You’ve been there for the highs and the lows, and I’m so grateful for all of the assist, laughter, and onerous work we’ve shared.
“I hope you’ll be able to perceive and assist me as I proceed to provide my greatest within the sport I love.
Richardson’s determination naturally introduced contrasting reactions from each nations, with Nice Britain’s delight counterpointed by Australian disappointment.
“Welcome to the staff, Matt,” British Biking stated in a submit on social media platform X.
AusCycling govt normal supervisor of efficiency, Jesse Korf, stated it was disappointing the 25-year-old was leaving a program that had delivered nice private and nationwide success.
“The announcement of Matt’s change is disappointing and got here as a shock,” Korf stated.
“We additionally perceive that the will to compete for a rustic one was born in can deliver forth sturdy feelings.”
Richardson was born in Maidstone, England and moved to Australia on the age of 9.
He started biking in his early teenagers in Perth and so apparent was his expertise that he was recruited to the Western Australia Institute of Sport (WAIS). A speedy rise via the ranks noticed Richardson win under-19 nationwide titles in dash and staff dash in 2017, earlier than his first nationwide staff illustration later that 12 months on the Junior Monitor World Championships. His time in Australian colors additionally introduced a staff dash world championship in 2022, and two Commonwealth Video games gold medals.
© AAP
