By T. Jayani, JadeTimes News
Track cyclist Matt Richardson, who secured three medals for Australia at the Paris Olympics, has changed his nationality and will now compete for Great Britain. The 25 year old, originally born in Kent, relocated to Western Australia at the age of nine and held dual citizenship throughout his 16 years there.
Richardson will join Great Britain's sprint squad, which is led by Sir Jason Kenny, a seven-time Olympic gold medalist. In a statement on Instagram, following the approval of his application by the Union Cycliste Internationale, Richardson acknowledged that the decision was "difficult" and not made "lightly."
The two time Commonwealth Games champion explained: "This was a personal choice, made after thoughtful consideration of my career and future. It wasn’t a decision I came to quickly or easily. I have deep respect for Australia and the AusCycling Team, and they will always be a part of me.
"But this choice is about pursuing my passion and challenging myself to reach new levels."
Jesse Korf, AusCycling's executive general manager of performance, expressed that Richardson's departure was a "surprise" and noted the disappointment in losing an athlete who had achieved significant personal and national success within the program.
Korf also remarked, "We understand that the desire to represent the country of one’s birth can evoke strong emotions." At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Richardson earned a silver medal in both the individual sprint and keirin, as well as a bronze in the team sprint.
