British Cycling can confirm that Ian Drake has completed the handover phase following the announcement in October that he would be leaving the organisation.

Consequently, Ian has been in discussions with the board of British Cycling with a view to leaving his role as chief executive earlier than planned. In recognition of the progress made, the board has agreed to allow Ian to step down with immediate effect. Ian has also stepped down as a member of the Sport England board.

The board has asked Jamie Obank to lead the organisation in his role of chief operating officer until a new chief executive is appointed.

British Cycling president Bob Howden said: “I would like to take this opportunity to recognise Ian’s tremendous work for British Cycling as chief executive over the last eight years. 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.”