British Cycling Seeks Clarity On Controversial Laps Out Rule

Proposed regulation change proves divisive.

- Chris Marshall-Bell

British Cycling is rushing to draft new guidance for commissaires on a controversial change to the rules amid fears it will be too harsh on competitors.

The national governing body’s road commission is planning to scrap a longstanding rule that allows riders to take a lap out of a race on a circuit of less than two kilometres, if they have a puncture, a crash or a mechanical defect, because of reports that the rule is being abused by riders.

BC’s technical commission are now redrafting the guidance before the board decides whether to ratify the change or not.

“It’s not a done deal yet, but it’s heading that way,” Jonny Clay, BC’s cycle sport and membership director, said. “We’re trying to get it through as quick as we can.” He did not, however, give details of how the guidance would change.

Since the announcement of the rule change in late December 2016, many have said the revised rules are unfair.