Olympic cycling champion Ed Clancy announces retirement due to injury

Ed Clancy is the most successful team pursuit rider in Olympic history. Credit: PA Images

Three-time Olympic champion Ed Clancy, who is from Barnsley, has announced his immediate retirement, with the 36-year-old withdrawing from the remainder of competition at the Tokyo Games.

Clancy was part of the British squad which posted the fourth fastest time in qualifying on Monday (2 August), keeping them in the frame to defend the title they have held since the Beijing Games in 2008, although they remained well off the pace set by world champions Denmark.

Clancy training with Team GB teammates in 2018. Credit: PA Images
Pictured with his gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, following victory in the men's team pursuit final. Credit: PA Images

According to a statement from British Cycling, Clancy made the decision "as a result of an ongoing back and sciatica issue".

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