Former Australian track cyclist Matt Richardson has withdrawn from the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow after sustaining an injury while racing in Japan. The English team announced the decision on Wednesday night, dealing a significant blow to the hosts' medal hopes in the velodrome.
Richardson, who was born in Kent, sensationally defected from Australia to Great Britain shortly after winning three medals at the Paris Olympics. His anticipated showdown with former teammate Leigh Hoffman had been one of the most talked-about storylines of the Games.
“Unfortunately, due to an injury sustained in international racing earlier this week, Matt Richardson will no longer be able to compete for Team England at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games,” the team confirmed on Instagram. Richardson and Hoffman had ridden together to win team sprint bronze in Paris and were expected to be favourites in the match sprint and keirin events.
Elsewhere in the Games, Australian middle-distance runner Olli Hoare has been reinstated in the 1500 metres after being clipped by a rival in his heat. Following a protest, the track referee ruled in his favour, allowing him to join compatriots Adam Spencer and Cam Myers in the final alongside Scotland's world record-holder Josh Kerr.
In the 200 metres, Australia's Lachie Kennedy backed up his 100m silver medal by running 20.50 in his heat to advance to the semi-final. Mia Gross and Monique Hanlon both won their women's 200m heats to progress.
