British Cycling will stream action from this weekend’s Lloyds National Track Championships for free on YouTube, the governing body having earlier this month paused its controversial £2.99-a-month membership pending a review of its impact on the cyclocross national championships.
Confirming the return of free coverage, British Cycling did admit its approach to streaming national championships remains “on a case‑by‑case basis, reflecting the unique nature, costs and practicalities of each of our disciplines”, with more details on the future of coverage expected in the coming months.
The £2.99 YouTube membership received a mixed reception when British Cycling announced it ahead of the cyclocross national championships last month, many taking issue with the claim the paywall is part of a “dynamic new approach” to “inspire new fans and deepen engagement”.
However, following its trial at the cyclocross nationals, British Cycling cancelled all memberships while a review of the subscription’s impact was undertaken and coverage plans for the future decided. This afternoon, the governing body confirmed that fans will be able to watch a live stream of the Lloyds National Track Championships for free on YouTube.
In fact, British Cycling is promising its free output will include “more coverage than ever”, across six sessions live from the National Cycling Centre in Manchester this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
“The extensive coverage will also include highlights and storytelling content across British Cycling social media platforms alongside the race action,” a spokesperson said. “Our live coverage – which is free to watch – will see 21 new national champions crowned across sprint, endurance and para-cycling competitions, with uninterrupted action and expert commentary.”
Jody Cundy and Lauren Bell will be part of the broadcast, offering coverage and insight from a studio in the heart of the velodrome, British Cycling suggesting some of the newly crowned national champions will be popping in throughout the weekend too.
Jonathan Day, Director of Events for British Cycling Ventures, said: “The Lloyds National Track Championships is always a prestigious and exciting event as riders compete for the much sought after national jersey – a huge honour in anyone’s career, and this year will be no different.
“We’re delighted that we will be able to share the joy, tension and thrill of the championships to anyone and everyone, wherever they are. Whether you’re watching from the stands or the sofa, there’s quality on offer as some of the World’s best riders go head-to-head.”
Tickets remain available for all days and sessions across the weekend, starting from £11 for adults. There are also family packages available on the Ticketmaster website.
While there will be excitement from fans about the prospect of the free coverage of a national championships returning, British Cycling did stress plans for the future are yet to be confirmed.
“British Cycling’s approach to the streaming of our National Championships is determined on a case‑by‑case basis, reflecting the unique nature, costs and practicalities of each of our disciplines,” a spokesperson said. “More details on our sport coverage plans for other National Championships in 2026 will be communicated in due course.”
