The sport’s governing body quickly reversed its position when it recalled that some would need bikes to get to work while the funeral was taking place. “Unfortunately my work hours coincide with the funeral,” wrote one angry respondent. “Is it okay with you if I don’t follow your absolutely ridiculous advice and cycle to work? Or would you prefer, as a sign of respect, that I pollute the air with my car? Maybe I can honk the national anthem on my horn?” British Cycling’s fresh guidance has continued to draw criticism as it also tells amateur cyclists not to ride with clubs next Monday as a mark of respect for Queen Elizabeth II. With Monday now a public holiday, it was expected that many cyclists would take advantage of the good weather forecast by taking long rides with their clubs. However, British Cycling’s official guidance now states that this should be avoided. “Out of respect for the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, British Cycling’s guidance is that no official domestic activities should take place on the day of the State Funeral, Monday 19 September,” it says. “This includes cycling sporting events, club rides, training sessions and community programs (such as Breeze rides).” This stance has been heavily criticized with some calling it “Stasi-worthy” and “ridiculous” and others vowing to cancel their participation. “You’re an embarrassment at a time when hate for cycling feels at an all-time high,” said another. The guidance comes despite the government telling sport there is no obligation to cancel or postpone events during the period of national mourning. British Cycling has removed at least one section on its website that told people not to cycle at all during the funeral. “British Cycling strongly advises anyone cycling on the day of the state funeral to do so outside the hours of the funeral and associated processions, which will be confirmed later this week,” its now-deleted guidance initially read.
