Dame Sarah Storey retires from Great Britain Paralympic competition
Great Britain’s most decorated Paralympian, Dame Sarah Storey, has retired from international competition with immediate effect to focus on driving systemic improvements within Para-sport.
The 48-year-old cyclist ends a phenomenal 35-year international career spanning nine Games across swimming and cycling.
She has opted against pursuing a tenth appearance at the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Games.
The 19-time Paralympic champion expressed frustration that momentum generated by the London 2012 Games has stalled in recent years.
“The years between each Games haven’t been utilised well enough to create the momentum that I and others hoped to see,” she said.
Shifting focus to future generations
Instead of chasing further individual glory, the British sporting icon wants to address critical areas requiring attention within the wider Para-sport ecosystem.
“I fully believe that I can have a greater impact off my bike, rather than chasing a 10th Games and possibly further titles.”
“I’m excited to be part of a future where we inject the momentum that is needed to ensure the future is bright for all Para-athletes.”
A legendary dual-sport career
Storey initially emerged as a 14-year-old swimmer in 1992, securing 16 medals in the pool before severe ear infections forced a discipline switch.
Transitioning permanently to the velodrome and road before Beijing 2008, the versatile athlete subsequently collected another 14 cycling golds.
In 2010, the record-breaking competitor made history by competing against non-disabled athletes for England at the Commonwealth Games.
Support from sporting leadership
World Athletics president Lord Coe, the former chairman of the London 2012 organising committee, publicly backed her assessment of the current landscape.
“The issues that Dame Sarah raises upon her retirement resonate with me hugely – sport must continue to take those small but steady steps forward to ensure that what has gone before is not wasted.”
The British Paralympic Association is yet to officially comment on her departure.