EDINBURGH — Sir Chris Hoy, the celebrated six-time Olympic cycling champion, has received an outpouring of support following his revelation of a terminal cancer diagnosis. In an interview with the Sunday Times, Hoy shared that doctors have informed him he has between two to four years to live due to stage four prostate cancer that has spread to his bones.
Following his disclosure, well-wishes flooded in from sporting figures, politicians, and thousands of fans across social media. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed solidarity, stating that the “whole country” is behind the 48-year-old athlete. Health Secretary Wes Streeting praised Hoy’s bravery, remarking that he is “in awe” of the former cyclist’s courage and positivity.
Hoy, who had previously revealed his cancer diagnosis earlier this year without specifying the type, expressed gratitude for the support he has received. In a social media post on Sunday, he reassured fans that he was “feeling fit, strong and positive” while covering the World Track Cycling Championships in Copenhagen with the BBC Sport team.
“You may see in the news this weekend some articles about my health,” he stated. “I just wanted to reassure you all that I’m feeling fit, strong and positive, and overwhelmed by all the love and support shown to my family and me.” Fellow athletes, including former Olympic cyclist Mark Cavendish and Olympic medal-winning boxer Anthony Ogogo, lauded Hoy as a “hero” and a “role model.”
In his interview, Hoy reflected on the nature of life and death, stating, “You know, we were all born and we all die, and this is just part of the process.” He emphasized the importance of medical advancements, noting, “Aren’t I lucky that there is medicine I can take that will fend this off for as long as possible?”
Hoy’s cancer was discovered last year during a routine scan for shoulder pain, initially thought to be a gym-related injury. Tumors have been located in his shoulder, pelvis, hip, spine, and rib. He received the terminal diagnosis while with his wife, Sarra, who is also facing health challenges after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown remarked on Hoy’s enduring courage, stating it has defined his career and now characterizes how both he and Sarra face their health struggles. Hoy’s commitment to openness about his condition has resonated with many, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who noted the impact of Hoy’s public stance, saying it is “worth even more than the stack of Olympic gold” he accumulated throughout his illustrious career.
With a remarkable tally of six Olympic gold medals, 11 world titles, and 43 World Cup victories, Sir Chris Hoy is one of Britain’s most decorated Olympians. He first achieved gold at the Athens Olympics in 2004 and added to his legacy with three more golds in Beijing in 2008 and two in London in 2012 before retiring in 2013. His six golds rank just behind Sir Jason Kenny’s seven, solidifying Hoy’s status as a national icon in the world of cycling.
