Britain withdraws Matthew Richardson from track world championships squad

British Cycling confirmed that Matthew Richardson had been withdrawn from its squad for the track world championships in Shanghai. The federation did not give a reason in the statement supplied to Reuters.

The championships run from Oct. 14 to 18. Richardson had previously been selected, so his removal changes the team immediately before competition begins.

RIA Novosti, citing RMC Sport, reported allegations of racist remarks and an investigation following another rider’s complaint. ABC’s account of the Reuters report separately described allegations reported by The Times. Those allegations have not been independently verified by Reuters and should not be treated as established misconduct.

Richardson, 27, won two silver medals and a bronze for Australia at the Paris Olympics in 2024. He subsequently switched his international allegiance to Britain.

The withdrawal is the federation’s confirmed action. Its brief statement does not establish the reported reason or an outcome to any investigation.