Great Britain's most decorated Paralympian, Dame Sarah Storey, has announced her immediate retirement from international competition.
The 48-year-old athlete will not compete at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games or the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics.
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Storey ends an international career spanning 35 years and nine Paralympic Games.
She holds a national record of 19 gold medals and 30 total podium finishes across swimming and cycling.
Reflecting on her journey, which began as a teenage swimmer at the Barcelona 1992 Games, Storey expressed gratitude for her career.
"I am so privileged to have spent 35 years as an international athlete," she said.
Storey explained that her decision to forego a tenth Paralympic appearance stems from a belief that para-sports need urgent organizational development.
"There's no doubt in my mind that, within Para sport, we have stalled somewhat since London 2012," she stated.
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She believes she can have a greater impact off the bike.
"I fully believe that I can have a greater impact off my bike, rather than chasing a tenth Games and possibly further titles," Storey said.
Despite stepping away, Storey remains confident in her physical ability.
"Physically, I fully believe that I could be on that start line in Los Angeles, confident of defending my two titles from Paris," she noted.
World Athletics President Lord Coe supported Storey's assessment. "The issues that Dame Sarah raises upon her retirement resonate with me hugely," he said.
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The British Paralympic Association has been approached for comment.
