Cyclist Matthew Richardson Banned for Life by Australia After Switching to Team Great Britain

The Olympic medallist's defection to Britain has led to allegations of secrecy, intellectual property concerns, and a review by Australian cycling authorities.

• Matthew Richardson, a 25-year-old track cyclist, switched his allegiance from Australia to Great Britain shortly after winning three medals at the Paris Olympics.
• AusCycling's review accused Richardson of secretly coordinating with British Cycling and the UCI to delay announcing his nationality change until after the Olympics.
• The review also alleged Richardson requested to take Australian equipment, including a custom bike and Olympic race suit, to Britain, raising intellectual property concerns.
• Richardson has dismissed the lifetime ban from representing Australia, stating it holds no weight for him as he plans to continue competing for Great Britain.
• The defection has sparked criticism within Australia's cycling community, with Richardson expressing hope for eventual reconciliation with AusCycling despite the fallout.

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Australian Broadcasting Corporation Le Parisien The Guardian Australian Broadcasting Corporation