Sir Chris Hoy, one of Britain’s most celebrated cyclists and Olympians, has revealed that his cancer is now terminal. He was diagnosed last year and given a prognosis of two to four years to live.
In an interview with The Sunday Times, Sir Chris, 48, reflected on his situation, saying, “As unnatural as it feels, this is nature.” He added, “You remind yourself, aren’t I lucky that there is medicine I can take that will fend this off for as long as possible.”
A tumor was initially found in his shoulder, followed by a scan that revealed primary cancer in his prostate, which has since spread to his bones. Tumors have also been found in his pelvis, hip, spine, and ribs, and doctors have confirmed that the disease is incurable.
Sir Chris and his wife, Sarra, who is a lawyer, have two children—seven-year-old Chloe and 10-year-old Callum. He recalled a conversation with Callum, then nine, who asked if his father was going to die. Sir Chris responded that no one lives forever but hoped the medication would allow him to be around “for many, many years.”
Despite his high tolerance for pain, Sir Chris has experienced a severe allergic reaction to chemotherapy. Just before his diagnosis, Sarra was also facing health challenges, as she was diagnosed with aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS) that required urgent treatment. The couple has not yet shared the news of Sarra’s MS diagnosis with their children.
In February, while undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy, Sir Chris felt compelled to publicly disclose his cancer diagnosis. At that time, he expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating that he felt “fit, strong, and positive,” and was “surrounded by love.”
Messages of support came in from many, including Sir Mark Cavendish, who called him a “hero of a human being,” and Sir Matthew Pinsent, who praised Sir Chris as “one of the finest to ever represent our country.” Others, like Dame Kelly Holmes and comedian Jack Whitehall, also shared their well wishes.
Sir Chris, who retired from competitive cycling in 2013, had been a dominant force in the sport, winning six Olympic gold medals and one silver, in addition to 11 world titles and 34 World Cup titles. Only his former teammate Sir Jason Kenny has won more Olympic gold medals for Great Britain.
In his statement, Sir Chris extended his thanks to the medical professionals for their care, and while appreciative of the support he’s received, he requested privacy for the sake of his family. He said, “My heart goes out to the many others who are also going through similar challenges right now. I’m optimistic, positive, and surrounded by love for which I’m truly grateful.”
Despite the diagnosis, Sir Chris remains determined to continue living his life fully. He still rides his bike and looks forward to the year ahead. He was knighted in 2008, the same year his mother, Carol, received an MBE for her work in sleep-related illnesses. Inspired by a scene in the film E.T., Sir Chris began his cycling journey and eventually became one of the sport’s greatest athletes.
Since retiring, he has launched a cycling range and authored a children’s book series, Flying Fergus. He even competed in the grueling Le Mans 24-Hour motor race in 2016. The velodrome built for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow was named in his honor, a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy.