Statement on Matthew Richardson

Australian track sprinter and Olympic silver medallist, Matthew Richardson, has announced that he intends to switch nationalities and compete for Great Britain at future international events. 

British-born Richardson, who competed with the Australian Cycling Team at the recent Paris Olympics, recently learned his application to change nationality for future competition had been approved by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). 

Richardson moved to Australia at the age of nine after being born in Maidstone, England, and began cycling in his early teens in Perth, Western Australia. 

Already cycling as a fun alternative to his gymnastics pursuits through the Midland Cycle Club, Richardson was invited to attend a ‘come ’n’ try’ track session that saw him subsequently 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, followed by his elevation to the Australian Cycling Team’s inaugural Podium Potential Academy cohort in 2018. 

His talent continued to develop at a rapid rate in recent years, exemplified by his three medals at Paris 2024, a team sprint world championship in 2022, and two Commonwealth Games gold medals. 

AusCycling Executive General Manager, Performance, Jesse Korf, said it was disappointing that Richardson would be leaving a program that had delivered great personal and national success.  

“The announcement of Matt’s switch is disappointing and came as a surprise. We also understand that the desire to compete for a country one was born in can bring forth strong emotions,” Korf said. 

“Matt has been an integral part of our sprint program over the past five years, enjoying many successes on the track across two Olympic Games, a Commonwealth Games, multiple UCI Track World Championships campaigns and several UCI Track Nations Cup and World Cup seasons. 

“Our Performance program has made massive leaps in terms of culture and performance in recent years which is a testament to all athletes, coaches and staff — Matt included. 

“The men’s sprint program is currently one of our deepest and exciting talent pools with strong programs across the country with the support of state and territory institute and academies of sport. We have many talented riders that now will see increased opportunity as we set our sights on LA 2028 as a stepping stone towards Brisbane 2032.” 

Richardson said the decision had been a difficult one and thanked AusCycling, his coaches and teammates for their contribution to his career. 

“Switching nationality was a difficult decision, and not one I took lightly. It was a personal choice, made after careful consideration of my career and future. It’s not something I decided on quickly or easily,” he said. 

“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. 

“Special mention to Midland Cycle Club, WAIS and AusCycling, with personal thanks to the two biggest coaching influences in my career — Clay Worthington and Matt Crampton. 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.”