British cyclist Matt Richardson earned his first medal for Great Britain as both the men’s and women’s teams claimed silver in the team sprint events on the opening day of the 2025 UCI Track Cycling World Championships in Santiago, Chile.
Richardson’s Debut Medal in GB Colours
Racing for the first time in a Great Britain skinsuit, the 26-year-old helped his team finish just behind the dominant Netherlands squad. Richardson, who switched allegiance from Australia after the 2024 Olympics, called the result “bittersweet.”
“My first medal at a world championships in GB colours feels amazing,” Richardson said. “I wish it was gold, but I can’t be too disappointed.”
Close Battle With the Dutch
Richardson teamed up with Joe Truman and Harry Ledingham-Horn for qualifying, before Hamish Turnbull replaced Ledingham-Horn in the final. The British trio led early before Jeffrey Hoogland powered the Dutch home, crossing the line 0.37 seconds ahead.
“We’re still learning as a team,” said Richardson. “Each time we ride together, we understand each other better.” Truman added: “It’s the closest we’ve ever been to the Dutch — a really positive start on our road to LA 2028.”
Finucane Leads Women’s Team to Silver
In the women’s sprint, defending world champion Emma Finucane guided debutants Iona Moir and Rhianna Parris-Smith to an impressive silver. The trio qualified fastest and defeated Colombia in the semis, but the Netherlands edged them by 0.26 seconds in the final.
“I’m so proud of these two,” Finucane said. “To ride in their first worlds final and stay composed under pressure was incredible.”
Strong Start for GB in Santiago
Finucane, now a six-time world medallist, will defend her individual sprint title on Thursday, while Katie Archibald and Mark Stewart will compete in the elimination and scratch races, respectively. Richardson and Ledingham-Horn will also return for the men’s keirin as Great Britain chase more golds in Chile.
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