British Cycling Appoints Pete Bonfield as New Chief Executive
British Cycling has officially appointed Professor Pete Bonfield OBE as its new Chief Executive, with the former University of Westminster vice-chancellor scheduled to take over the top administrative role in mid-November 2026. Bonfield steps into the position following the departure of former chief executive Jon Dutton, taking the reins after an interim period managed by Lee Gibbons.
Stepping Into the Hotseat: Leadership Transition at British Cycling
The appointment marks a notable shift for the national governing body. According to announcements from both BikeBiz and Endurance.biz, Bonfield was chosen following a rigorous recruitment process.
Chris Pilling, Chair of British Cycling, praised the incoming executive’s administrative background. Pilling stated that Bonfield is an accomplished and values-driven leader with a strong track record of leading complex organizations, building partnerships, and delivering meaningful change, according to the official coverage. Pilling also placed on record his sincere thanks to Lee Gibbons for his exceptional contribution as Interim Chief Executive during the transition period.
Deep Roots in the Sport and Public Administration
Bonfield brings a combination of athletic background and institutional governance to the role. As a lifelong cyclist, he is a former British Cycling National Juvenile Circuit Race champion, represented Great Britain at the Junior Worlds, and served as a National Senior Road squad member. Beyond competition, his resume includes racing, coaching, managing, touring, and commuting by bike.
His professional leadership credentials extend far beyond cycling. Since 2018, Bonfield has served as Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Westminster. His board-level experience includes serving as President of both the Institution of Engineering and Technology and the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, acting as a Non-Executive Board Member within the UK Government, and holding the role of Senior Independent Director of ukactive.
Between 2006 and 2012, Bonfield completed a part-time secondment to the Olympic Delivery Authority. In that capacity, he helped co-create and deliver the London 2012 Sustainability Strategy while leading work relating to construction products across the Olympic build program, which included the development of the velodrome and cycling facilities within the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
The Road Ahead for the National Governing Body
Addressing his upcoming tenure, Bonfield emphasized the scope of the national governing body’s mission. According to statements published by BikeBiz, he noted that cycling has been a constant throughout his life and described it as a privilege to lead a sport that gives so much to so many people in diverse ways.
British Cycling maintains an operational footprint supporting riders ranging from local clubs and community programmes to success on the world stage.
As Bonfield prepares to assume executive duties in November, the organization’s immediate focus remains on maintaining operational momentum across its priorities.
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