Team GB cycling shock as leader Ed Clancy quits Tokyo 2020 and retires from sport with back injury

TEAM GB’S fading men’s team pursuit medal hopes suffered a devastating blow as leader Ed Clancy quit the Games – and retired from cycling.

Clancy, 36, came to Tokyo seeking a fourth successive pursuit gold.

AFP

Team GB star Ed Clancy has quit Tokyo and retired from the sport[/caption]

AP

The 36-year-old has pulled out with an ‘ongoing back and sciatica issue’[/caption]

But he took the blame for a ‘ragged’ display in qualifying which saw GB only fourth fastest and facing an unlikely task against world champs Denmark in Tuesday’s first round.

And now GB chiefs have confirmed Clancy is out of the rest of the Olympics due to an ‘ongoing back and sciatica issue’.

Clancy said: “I’m absolutely gutted that my Olympic career has ended this way, but it would be unfair of me to try to carry on now I have aggravated my back injury.

“Ultimately, I want the rest of the lads to build on the hard work we have done over the past year and a half and give them the best possible chance of making it on to the podium.

“I will be supporting them all the way.”

Charlie Tanfield will replace Clancy alongside Ethan Hayter, Ethan Vernon and Ollie Wood.

Clancy added: “I’ve spent just over 20 years on the Great Britain Cycling Team and I see it as my family.

“I have achieved more during my time than I ever could have dreamed of, it’s something I will remember for the rest of my life.

“It’s been a pleasure, to the extent that if I could go back in time I would do it all over again.

“I know it’s a tough call, because I’m enjoying it more now than I ever have done, but the difficult choice is usually the right one and right now is the time to go.”

GB performance director Stephen Park said: “I admire Ed for taking the decision to retire from the sport which he still has a strong passion for.

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“I know it was tough for him but his professionalism and honesty led him to make this decision and he can hold his head high.

“Through his domination in the team pursuit and by winning three consecutive Olympic gold medals, Ed has played a big part in driving the event forward.

“Away from the bike, Ed embodies the values of our team and has become a trusted mentor to his younger teammates.”