Extensive evidence of use of N-word, homophobia, and Asian-hate by track cyclist Matthew Richardson revealed
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Follow us on GoogleBritish newspaper The Times has revealed why track cyclist Matthew Richardson was dropped from the national team just before the World Championships in Shanghai. The sprint specialist, who came to the team from Australia, was barred from competing in China because of an investigation launched against him by British Cycling. However, questions are being raised at the timing of the ban.
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Richardson was barred from competition at the Track World Championships
Richardson was told just before the World Championships that he had been suspended for disciplinary reasons. “The sprinter is said to have made discriminatory remarks about people with an immigrant background,” The Times reported at the time.
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The rider himself issued a statement in response to the decision. “I express my regret regarding the feelings of anyone who may have been affected by this. Out of fairness to everyone involved, and on the advice of my counsel, I, like British Cycling, will not comment further until the process is complete.”
The Times has "extensive evidence" regarding Richardson
The Times is now reporting on what Richardson is alleged to have done. “We have reviewed extensive evidence, dating back several years, consisting of images and messages that Richardson sent to other cyclists. He appears to regularly make discriminatory remarks about people with an immigrant background.”
"The Times has seen six different posts in which he appears to use the racist 'n-word,' as well as others in which he jokes about using that word. He also appears to have made a number of offensive remarks about the Asian community and homophobic statements," the newspaper reported.
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Serious allegations of racism and misconduct have been leveled against the British cyclist
Richardson was cut just before World Championships, but accusations were already circling
This issue had reportedly already been raised within British Cycling prior to the Commonwealth Games. “The fact that the allegation was made as early as July has also led some riders to question the speed with which the investigation into Richardson was conducted—and why he was only withdrawn 48 hours before the World Championships in Shanghai last month.”
In a statement to The Times on Tuesday, British Cycling said: “The well-being of our people is fundamental to everything we do. We are committed to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment, and all concerns raised are addressed through our formal procedures. Every complaint is taken seriously.'
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Clarice WebsterEditor
Clarice has been following cycling her whole life, wroting about Thibaut Pinot (among others) for her university magazine while earning her masters in Journalism. She is passionate about furthering equality in sports coverage, and has taken huge inspiration from pillars of women’s cycling like Beryl Burton, Marianne Vos, and Laura Kenny.
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