'I will co-operate fully' – Matthew Richardson responds to misconduct reports after Track World Championships withdrawal

British track sprinter Matthew Richardson has pledged to fully cooperate with any investigation into misconduct allegations that led to his last-minute withdrawal from the UCI Track World Championships in Shanghai, China. The 27-year-old was removed from the 20-rider British squad for the event, set to begin on Wednesday, due to serious misconduct reports.

According to The Times, Richardson is under investigation for posting discriminatory content and exhibiting discriminatory behavior. In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Richardson stated, "I understand the seriousness of what has been raised in recent reports about my withdrawal from the 2026 UCI Track Cycling World Championships," expressing his commitment to cooperating with British Cycling's established procedures.

He assured everyone that he will handle the situation appropriately and with contrition for any feelings affected. Richardson added, "Out of fairness to everyone involved, and on advice, like British Cycling, I will not be commenting further until any process is complete." He expressed deep disappointment at missing the World Championships and wished the Great Britain team and all competing riders the best.

British Cycling confirmed Richardson's withdrawal from the Worlds squad but did not provide a reason. The governing body emphasized that it takes allegations of harassment, bullying, or discrimination extremely seriously and that investigations are conducted thoroughly through established procedures. Richardson, who was expected to race in the team sprint, sprint, and keirin events, previously won two silver medals at the World Championships last October and is the reigning sprint and keirin European champion.

Great Britain's men's sprint team will now be represented by Harry Ledingham-Horn, Ed Lowe, and Joe Truman.