"I am proud of my record"

Original date of this blog entry: 21st September 2017

Brian Cookson has sent a message of good luck to new UCI President David Lappartient, who won the election to lead international cycling for the next four years.

Cookson, who was elected in 2013, has transformed cycling since taking over a sport that was in turmoil.

Brian Cookson said: “First of all, I would like to congratulate David Lappartient on winning today’s election at the UCI Congress.

“The UCI I leave behind is unrecognisable from the organisation I took over in 2013 and I depart with my head held high.

“Someone needed to stand up and take on the previous regime, who had dragged cycling into the gutter and I leave the UCI knowing that I have delivered all the promises I made four years ago.

“I am proud of the work that I have overseen and I am proud of the tireless work that my team and I have undertaken to make the UCI an International Federation that is respected around the world.

“Our beloved sport of cycling is in a healthier condition than for generations. Our relationships with key stakeholders such as the IOC, WADA, sponsors, race organisers, teams, riders and, most importantly, our fans, is stronger than it has ever been.

“Our work to promote gender equality, our drive to broaden the appeal of our sport and ensure greater opportunities and support for developing nations means that cycling now inspires and excites millions more around the world.”

Brian Cookson now plans to spend more time with his family in Lancashire while maintaining his passion for cycling. He concluded: “I am tremendously disappointed not to have been given a mandate to complete the work we began four years ago and I hope that David Lappartient will continue to move cycling in the right direction.

“I will no doubt be in the Manchester velodrome or on the hills around my home in Lancashire in the weeks to come and will continue to serve my sport in any way I can.”