Regulating technology, enabling participation: Evaluating the impact of a new cycling racing class in the UK.

Abstract

Purpose/Rationale This study outlines the introduction of a new racing class in the sport of cycle time-trials in the UK which was implemented to address falling levels of participation. This case study follows up on this policy innovation by conducting a survey of its participants after two full racing seasons and investigates the perceptions of it by its participants. Design/Methodology/Approach An online survey was administered to cycling time trial participants (n=801). This survey utilised a traditional thematic analysis approach which was then further validated via an artificial intelligence-based process. Findings The findings found respondents’ perceptions of the class matched that of its original concept by minimising the resources required to compete, increasing inclusivity and seeing a perceived avoidance or rejection of a technological ‘arms race’. Respondents’ were also largely content with the current rules' content. Practical Implications Governing bodies should avoid rule changes that increase participant costs or accelerate technological arms races, as these were consistently identified as barriers. They should also actively promote the new racing class as equivalent in status through equal social media coverage, prize structures, and event branding to counter perceptions of it being a ‘second-class’ category. Finally, they should enhance visible rule enforcement to maintain trust. Originality/Value This is a novel study which contributes to an emerging understanding of how regulatory design can be used to balance performance, accessibility and participation within technologically evolving sports.