Maidstone’s Matthew Richardson has been called up by Team England for this summer’s Commonwealth Games.
The two-time Commonwealth cyclist champion and three-time Olympic medallist will make his Team England Games debut, where he will look to defend his individual sprint title from Birmingham 2022 won in Australia colours before switching allegiances to the country of his birth in 2024.
He also won gold in the team sprint four years ago.
“I’m proud to be representing England for the first time at my second Commonwealth Games,” he said.
“I’m so excited to get out there and race for the team and hopefully bring back another gold medal to add to the collection.”
The star-studded cycling and para-cycling squads contain 11 Commonwealth Games medallists and 14 debutants as part of an exciting blend of youth and experience that will take to the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome this summer.
Team England Chef de Mission Jonathon Riall said: “It is brilliant to be able to announce our cycling and para-cycling squads, which are filled with some of the sport’s’ biggest names.
“That so many global medallists have chosen to represent Team England is testament to the stature of the Commonwealth Games.
“The squads also contain a number of exciting young talents making their Team England debuts, as the Games continues its proud record of providing a platform to the next generation.”
Performance Director for the Great Britian Cycling Team, Stephen Park CBE, said: “Representing Team England at the Commonwealth Games is always a unique experience for our team, as the squad blends world-class experience with up-and-coming talent, which makes for a very exciting mix.
“This event provides a special opportunity for our 14 debutants to get their first experience on the world stage, while being exposed to a huge learning opportunity alongside veterans of the sport.
“It’s also a rare chance for our track and para-track squads to compete together and with the para-cycling schedule extended to include C-class races, offers even more of a spectacle for those joining us in the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome or watching at home. It’s one not to miss!”
The Games take place from July 23-August 2.
