The Great Britain Cycling Team Podium Potential Squad is a full-time programme and involves significant periods of overseas training and racing exposure.

It includes riders from all Olympic disciplines that we support as a GBCT programme but the philosophy remains the same throughout – hard work, discipline and commitment.

Our aim is to provide a demanding but well-supported environment, so riders understand the requirements, expectations and principles of what it takes to be a world and Olympic champion. While we aim to progressively develop skills, it is very much focused and deliberate to being the best in the world.

A small number of riders are selected each year but, those who are join an already well-established programme with a proven record of outstanding performances. Riders will refine the skills and abilities learnt on the Olympic Development Squad, furthering development within a culture of excellence and personal responsibility.

Bike riding is the most important thing, but we also know how important developing “off the bike” is too. We aim to provide the knowledge and skills required to be the very best you can be. Throughout a rider’s time on the Podium Potential Squad, there are plenty of opportunities to develop both as a rider and as an individual.

Membership on the Podium Potential Squad is performance based, and therefore, prolonged membership is not guaranteed. Riders will be reviewed throughout the year against their annual plan and how they continue to track against the required development trajectory. Accordingly, riders need to show commitment and determination as well as an ability to hit key milestones and targets.

How do you get on the Podium Potential Squad?

• Riders are typically aged 18-23 but flexibility exists depending on discipline. 
• Following closure of the application window, a short-list is created – this is usually made up of Olympic Development Squad riders who have excelled and external applicants that are performing successfully at international level. 
• Shortlisted riders are observed during training and competition and may be invited to take part in a confirmation phase – following this membership is finalised. 
• Whilst membership to Podium Potential typically kicks off in October of each year, there are cases periodically in which riders may be invited later in the year. 
• The following is a list of benchmarks/performance achievements (listed as minimum standard) to be competitive at Podium Potential. Note that these benchmarks will be progressive as the riders move through from year to year.

What will you receive on the programme?

• A comprehensive and individualised training and competition programme. 
• National and international training camps and competition opportunities (note, in some cases we will provide squads/riders with logistical support but riders may have to support themselves at camps/competitions which are not part of the GBCT-led programme of activity). 
• Select camp and competition opportunities with the Podium squad, where applicable, to support and augment development. 
• Comprehensive support from the Performance Support Team (nutrition, performance lifestyle, S&C and psych support etc.)  
• Subsidised, furnished accommodation (only applicable to centralised programmes and those required to be full time in Manchester). 
• Kit and equipment, depending on discipline. 
• GBCT competition, training and leisure clothing  
• Performance nutrition supply allowance. 
• A UK Sport supported athlete performance award, in line with the programme membership APA matrix policy. 
• Admin support including competition logistics, travel bookings and accommodation management. 
• Private medical cover through the UK Sport Athlete Medical Scheme in partnership with BUPA. 
• British Cycling membership, a race license and BOA Athlete passport.