A high-profile cyclist, after defecting from Australia to Britain following medals at the Paris Olympics, has withdrawn from Glasgow 2026 due to an injury sustained in international racing in Japan.

England’s team announced the withdrawal on Wednesday night (AEST), saying the injury will prevent him from competing for Team England.

He was slated to race in the team sprint, keirin, and sprint at the Commonwealth Games but will not participate because of the injury.

Leigh Hoffman had spoken about the anticipated rivalry, framing a storyline where Australians and Britons pursue opposing aims in Glasgow.

The field was expected to be stacked in Glasgow, with riders like Azizul Awang and Nicholas Paul among others.

His withdrawal shifts expectations for major head-to-heads at Glasgow, especially in the team sprint, match sprint, and keirin, where he and Hoffman were among the favorites.

Richardson’s presence would have signaled a high-profile clash against former teammates and added drama to the track cycling program at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome.

Richardson and Hoffman previously won team sprint bronze together at the Paris Olympics and were expected to be favorites in the match sprint and keirin at Glasgow 2026.

Harry Radford will replace Richardson and contest the sprint events at his Commonwealth Games debut.

Hoffman noted Richardson’s critique of the Australia program as ‘like high school’ and praised Britain’s system as ‘like Hogwarts,’ highlighting better resources.

Hoffman recalled Richardson’s defection and the emotional impact on the Australian camp, including Richardson’s remarks about AusCycling.

Australian teammate Hoffman acknowledged the rivalry but emphasized the depth of talent in the field after Richardson’s withdrawal.