After Richardson’s initial, disqualified, 200m world record in Konya in March, he decided to return to the same velodrome for an official attempt.
Located on the outskirts of the Turkish city, the track was opened in 2022, and is pitched at 1,200m above sea level; its altitude lowering the air density, which reduces aerodynamic drag. It is eight metres wide, one metre wider than standard tracks. It is also slightly steeper, at 45.5°, compared with London’s Lee Valley Velodrome, for example, at 42°. “For a flying effort, it’s pretty optimal,” Richardson says.
The only downside is it can be tough to handle in the corners. “There’s a tiny little section out of the bends, for about five or 10 metres maybe, where it still kind of turns, but not as…
