Tributes are pouring in for Chris Hoy after being diagnosed with terminal cancer
Tributes have poured in for Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy after he revealed he had been given a terminal cancer diagnosis.
In one interview with the Sunday TimesHoy, who won six golds and one silver for Team GB, said doctors had told him he had two to four years to live.
Although Hoy, 48, had said earlier this year that he had undergone treatment for cancer, he did not say what type of cancer, but he told the Sunday Times that he had been diagnosed with primary cancer in his prostate, which had spread to his bones spread.
His wife Sarra has also been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a degenerative disease. The couple have two children, Chloe and Callum.
“As unnatural as it feels, this is nature,” says Hoy told the Sunday Times. “You know, we’re all born and we’re all going to die, and this is just part of the process. Remind yourself: Aren’t I lucky that I can take medication that will ward this off for as long as possible.
“With my hand on my heart, I’m usually quite positive and really lucky,” he added. “This is bigger than the Olympics. It’s bigger than anything. This is about appreciating life and finding joy.”
Hoy made no reference to his personal news when he presented the Track Cycling World Championships on the BBC on Sunday afternoon.
Following the publication of the article, social media platforms were filled with tributes and support from friends and well-wishers.
“You are incredible Chris, sending lots of love and strength,” said Olympic gold medalist Sally Gunnell.
Television pundit and ex-footballer Ally McCoist wrote: “You, my friend, are a superstar in every sense of the word. Love and strength from all of us.”
Olympic cyclist Mark Cavendish called Hoy a “hero of a man”.
The Edinburgh-born athlete is credited with playing a key role in making British Cycling a success.
Hoy shared a photo on Instagram from the Track Cycling World Championships in Copenhagen and wrote: “You may see some articles about my health in the news this weekend, so I just wanted to reassure you that I am feeling fit, strong and fit. positive and overwhelmed by all the love and support shown to my family and me. Forward!”
“What sad news,” Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote on X. “Chris is a British sporting legend. It’s inspiring to face his diagnosis with such positivity. The whole country is behind him and his family.”
UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “I am impressed that Chris Hoy is facing his cancer with the same positivity and resilience that has defined his life and career. The whole country will cheer him on as we have done so many times before and send him and his family so much love.”
“I send all good wishes to Sir Chris Hoy and his family,” wrote Scottish First Minister John Swinney. “He has always inspired us with everything he has done. He is a person of incredible courage and that is reflected today.”
“Chris Hoy is one of the best to ever represent our country,” said Olympic rower Matthew Pinsent. “Thoughts with him, Sarra and his immediate family.”
“An article to give you pause,” wrote football commentator Jacqui Oatley. “Devastating to read Sir Chris Hoy’s diagnosis and that of his wife Sarra. Life can be so cruel. But the class and humility with which he tells this story is truly humbling.”
“Overwhelmed by Sir Chris Hoy’s resilience and determination this morning,” said television presenter Dan Walker. “Shortly after being told he had two to four years to live due to his terminal cancer… his dear wife, Sarra, was diagnosed with MS. The man remains an incredible source of inspiration. Sending love to the whole family.”