British Cycling names rider representatives in bid to break down 'us and them' mentality

A new Rider Representative Commission (RRC) has been set up, involving 16 cyclists, in a bid to address the cultural problems that were identified at British Cycling.

Last year’s Independent Review into the Climate and Culture of the World Class Programme at British Cycling recommended that UK Sport funding be made conditional on British Cycling’s implementation of its various recommendations.

Among the concerns raised was the relationship between coaches and riders with many staff members making reference to a “culture of fear”.

The BBC reports that the RRC has been set up to ensure athlete’s views are represented and acknowledged.

The initial RRC comprises Katie Archibald, Elinor Barker, Alice Barnes, Sophie Capewell, Ed Clancy, Ellie Dickinson, Kian Emadi, Neil Fachie, Quillan Isidore, Mel Lowther, Katy Marchant, Pete Mitchell, Ryan Owens, Helen Scott, Callum Skinner and Sophie Thornhill.

Para-track cyclist Pete Mitchell said: "It's a refreshing improvement to our team culture and has gone a long way to break down the ‘us versus them’ mentality that many felt previously existed."

"The RRC is really important to us as riders and we've already seen some tangible improvements since its inception."

British Cycling's performance director Stephen Park said: "This will help to ensure that all areas of British Cycling can best support the riders' needs, be directly informed about the rider experience and ensure the views of the riders are being heard with the relevant actions being considered.

"Ensuring athletes have a voice in the decision-making process across all the Olympic and Paralympic sports is high on UK Sport's agenda and I'm pleased we have been able make good progress in establishing our own commission."