It has been announced that British Cycling CEO Ian Drake is to step down from his role with the governing body.
An announcement in October stated that Drake, who has held the position for 8 years, was intending on leaving. However, having now completed the handover, discussions since the initial announcement have resulted in him stepping down 'with immediate effect.' As a result, Drake will also be stepping down from his position as a member of the Sport England Board.
'I would like to take this opportunity to recognise Ian's tremendous work for British Cycling as chief executive over the last eight years,' said BC President Bob Howden. 'On behalf of the board I wish Ian every happiness in the future. Recruitment for a new chief executive is progressing well and I expect to be in a position to make a further announcement in the coming weeks.'
In the mean time, chief operating officer Jamie Obank will act as a replacement until a longer-term candidate is found.
The news comes amid a furore surrounding British Cycling that, with the findings of multiple independent investigations still outstanding, is yet to subside.
The results of an independent review looking into the culture surrounding British Cycling is expected to be made public in February, while an investigation into potential wrongdoing in cycling being made by the parliamentary Culture, Media and Sport Committee is ongoing. Former GB rider Nicole Cooke is due to appear before the committee on 24th January.