'Regardless of whether I make the official team for LA28 or not, I’m honored to be in the running' - Taylor Phinney is back and aiming for Olympic gold

Taylor Phinney, the American cyclist and former 2009 individual pursuit world champion, has announced his return to competitive racing after a seven-year hiatus. Phinney is focusing on track cycling once more, aiming to secure a place on the US pursuit team for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. His comeback began with gravel racing but has evolved into a full-fledged Olympic ambition, rekindling his passion for the discipline where he first found success. Phinney’s career has been marked by both remarkable achievements and significant setbacks. After excelling on the track, he transitioned to road racing following the removal of the individual pursuit from the Olympic programme. His road career highlights include wearing the maglia rosa at the 2012 Giro d’Italia and winning multiple US national time trial titles. However, a severe crash in 2014 caused serious injuries, leading to a lengthy period of rehabilitation and ultimately his retirement at age 29, citing the toll injuries had taken on his body. The decision to return was influenced by his family’s Olympic heritage and support from his wife, Kasia Niewiadoma, a Tour de France Femmes winner. Phinney’s mother, Connie Carpenter-Phinney, famously won Olympic gold in the 1984 Los Angeles Games, adding a poignant dimension to his pursuit of Olympic glory in the same city. He describes this comeback as an opportunity to complete a “final loop” in his cycling career, embracing the challenge with renewed determination. Although Phinney acknowledges the hard work ahead, particularly in regaining peak physical condition, he remains optimistic about his prospects. He emphasises that whether or not he makes the official LA28 team, he is honoured to be in contention and is committed to helping elevate the US pursuit squad through World Cup competitions. His return not only adds a compelling narrative to the lead-up to the 2028 Olympics but also highlights the enduring spirit of an athlete determined to rewrite his legacy.