Dame Sarah Storey, Great Britain’s most-decorated Paralympian, has retired from international competition with immediate effect. The 48-year-old cyclist will not compete at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, citing a need to focus on improving the momentum and infrastructure of Para-sport, which she believes has stalled since the London 2012 Games.
Why Sarah Storey is Leaving International Competition
Storey announced her retirement to pivot toward advocacy and the development of Para-sport. According to her official statement, she believes the period between Paralympic Games hasn’t been used effectively to maintain the growth seen in previous decades. She described the current moment as a “critical stage” for the movement.
“I fully believe that I can have a greater impact off my bike, rather than chasing a 10th Games and possibly further titles,” Storey said. She noted that many areas of the sport “still need attention” and expressed a desire to ensure a brighter future for all Para-athletes by injecting necessary momentum into the system.
A Record-Breaking Career from Swimming to Cycling
Storey's career spans nine Paralympic Games, making her one of the most enduring figures in global athletics. She began her journey as a swimmer, competing in four separate Games before transitioning to cycling.
Her most dominant performance occurred during the London 2012 Games, where she won four gold medals on home soil.
Lord Coe on the Legacy of London 2012
World Athletics president Lord Coe, who served as the chairman of the London 2012 organising committee, acknowledged the validity of Storey’s concerns. While Coe stated he remains “extremely proud” of the delivery of the London Games, he admitted that the issues Storey raised “resonate with me hugely.”
Coe emphasized that sport must continue taking "small but steady steps forward" to ensure the progress made during the London era isn't wasted.
Comparing Storey’s Impact: On-Bike vs. Off-Bike
Storey’s decision represents a shift from individual achievement to systemic
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