Paralympic great Sarah Storey retires from international competition
Great Britain's most decorated Paralympian, Dame Sarah Storey, has retired to focus on improving Para-sport.
End of an era
Dame Sarah Storey, Great Britain's most decorated Paralympian, has retired from international competition with immediate effect. The 48-year-old cyclist decided not to compete at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics to concentrate on advancing Para-sport.
Reasons for retirement
The 19-time Paralympic champion believes the sport has "stalled somewhat" since the London 2012 Games and that many areas "still need attention." "The years between each Games haven't been utilised well enough to create the momentum that I and others hoped to see," Storey said. She said she fully believes she can have a greater impact off her bike rather than chasing a 10th Games and further titles.
Career achievements
Storey started as a swimmer, competing at four Games before switching to cycling, winning 30 Paralympic medals across nine Games, including four golds at London 2012. Born without a functioning left hand, she began her Paralympic career as a 14-year-old swimmer in 1992. In 2010, she became the second Para-athlete to compete against non-disabled athletes at the Commonwealth Games.
Future plans
Storey expressed excitement about being part of a future where she can inject needed momentum into Para-sport. Her last eight Paralympic titles were won after becoming a mother.
Reactions
World Athletics president Lord Coe, who chaired the London 2012 organising committee, said Storey's concerns resonate with him, stressing that sport must continue taking steady steps forward. The British Paralympic Association has been approached for comment.
