Storey, Britain's most decorated Paralympian, won the women's C5 time trial for the fifth consecutive Games. However, she was dismayed to find that the course was reduced to just 14.1 kilometres, a significant departure from the 22-kilometre distance she has competed over in previous Games. In contrast, the men's C5 race is scheduled for two laps of the same course, totalling 28.3 kilometres.

"This is the shortest Paralympic time trial we have ever had," Storey remarked after her victory. "It’s a real shame because you don’t get to showcase para-sport in the way that you want to. I hope this is the only time it’s less than 20 kilometres."

Storey’s criticism highlights a broader concern regarding gender parity in the Paralympic Games. The decision to shorten the women’s race while allowing the men’s race to cover twice the distance has sparked accusations of inequality. “Having fought so hard for parity in women’s cycling, to not have it in para-cycling after what we had in Glasgow last year is a real disappointment,” Storey added.

The organisers decided to shorten the course due to a packed schedule on the day, with 19 races planned. Despite this, Storey believes there was ample time to accommodate a longer course, arguing that athletes had raised their concerns with the organisers but received no response.

“It’s a hilly 10km. I do lots of those at home so I have plenty of practice. But in championships, you expect a race of a minimum of 22km. That’s what we’ve done in all the other Paralympic Games,” Storey explained. She referenced past Paralympic courses in Beijing, Brands Hatch, Rio, and Tokyo, praising their length and challenge.

The issue of course length was not only a point of contention for Storey. Team-mate Fran Brown also voiced her disappointment, though she acknowledged the unique nature of the course. "I enjoyed it. It was different," Brown said. "I would have liked a bit of a longer course as well, we are capable of riding a bit further, but we all did the same course on the day so made the most of it."

Storey’s comments reflect broader concerns about how para-sport is presented and valued in comparison to able-bodied competitions. She concluded with a strong call for change. “I hope they never do this to the women again because I think it’s been appalling.”