Project Rainbow: How British Cycling Reached the Top of the World

Project Rainbow is the definitive inside story of one of British cycling’s greatest triumphs: Mark Cavendish’s 2011 World Championship victory, the day the Manx Missile pulled on the coveted rainbow jersey. Told by Rod Ellingworth — Cavendish’s long‑time coach, mentor and one of the key architects of Britain’s cycling revolution — this is the behind‑the‑scenes account of how a nation went from obscurity to global dominance on the road.

Twenty‑five years ago, British road cycling was nowhere. Today, thanks to riders like Bradley Wiggins, Chris Froome, Geraint Thomas and Cavendish — the sprinter who bridged all their eras — it sits at the top of the world. Ellingworth, former GB Elite Road Coach and Team Sky Performance Manager, was at the heart of that transformation. Here, he reveals how a bottom‑up rebuild of the sport led to a meteoric rise, culminating in Cavendish’s unforgettable win in Copenhagen.

With Cavendish himself calling Ellingworth “cycling’s answer to Brian Clough,” this book offers rare insight into the psychology, planning and teamwork behind elite performance. From the early days of British Cycling’s resurgence to the tactical masterclass that delivered the rainbow jersey, Project Rainbow shows how belief, structure and relentless preparation can change everything.

Featuring an introduction by Mark Cavendish, this is essential reading for fans of modern cycling, high‑performance sport and the story of how Britain built a winning machine.