The six foreign riders set to compete in the “Keirin World Series,” which kicks off on June 3 in Hofu, held a press conference in Tokyo on the 11th. Among them, Harry Lavreysen (29) from the Netherlands, who won three gold medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s a dream come true.” Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Ellesse Andrews (25), a double gold medalist in Paris and a top female contender, pledged to shine, adding, “This will be valuable experience ahead of the LA Olympics.”
For Lavreysen, who dominated the Paris Olympics with three golds and claimed four titles at the 2025 World Championships, earning him the nickname “Absolute King,” racing in Japan’s keirin was also a lifelong dream. “One time, Joseph Truman and I talked about Japanese keirin at a bar in Canada. I was jealous when he got to take part. Now I’ve been invited, and my dream has come true. Japan is the birthplace of keirin,” he said, beaming with joy.
The different aspects of keirin, such as the inclusion of pacing lines, gear ratios, and the fact that most races are held outdoors—unlike the indoor track cycling he’s used to—pose new challenges. “It won’t be an easy win. I think I’ll be leading the pack more often, which is also safer,” Lavreysen noted, confident that his speed will dominate. “I want to win a lot and also set new track records.” Interestingly, his first race in Hofu will pit him against track record holder Yudai Nitta from Fukushima.
Matthew Richardson (27) from Great Britain, who settled for two silver medals in Paris after losing to Lavreysen, also appeared. “The difference in the bikes is significant. But adapting to a different style of racing will also benefit my track cycling. I want to showcase my explosive sprinting ability,” he said, hinting at a thrilling performance.
Female gold medalist Andrews had long admired Japanese keirin after hearing about it from teammates who had competed. “Sam Webster and Natasha Hansen told me great stories when I was younger. It’s been a dream to race in Japanese keirin, and I feel honored to be invited,” she said with a smile.
Hetty van der Wouw (27) from the Netherlands, who won silver in the keirin at the Paris Olympics, sees this as a fresh challenge. “For the past ten years or so, I felt like I was doing the same thing over and over. Keirin is a unique experience, and not many riders get the call. Trying something new might also improve my riding,” she said, using the opportunity to level up.
Joseph Truman (29) from Great Britain, who has prior keirin experience, plans to use his knowledge as a weapon. “I’ve always wanted to come back to Japan. I know the lines well. I grew up racing on 500-meter tracks, and as a Brit, I’m used to riding in the rain,” he emphasized his adaptability. Mathilde Gros (27) from France, returning to keirin for the first time since 2019, was also determined. “Keirin is quite difficult, but I feel fully prepared this time. I didn’t deliver my best at the Paris Olympics, but participating here will make me stronger,” she said enthusiastically. The world’s top riders are clearly thrilled to compete in Japanese keirin, and the series from June to September promises to be a thrilling spectacle.