Sir Chris Hoy: Six-time Olympic gold medallist says he is being treated for cancer

Six-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy has announced he has been diagnosed with cancer.

The former track cyclist shared the news on his Instagram account, saying he had hoped to keep the diagnosis private but that his “hand has been forced”.

Sir Chris said he was currently undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy, but added “I currently feel fine”.

The 47-year-old said he is “optimistic, positive and surrounded by love” after revealing he was diagnosed last year.

Sir Chris said he was dealt a “huge shock” when he was diagnosed, as he had not had any prior symptoms.

He did not reveal what type of cancer he is receiving treatment for.

The ex-Team GB cyclist, who was knighted in 2008, added his treatment “is going really well” and he is “truly grateful” for the support he’s received.

The athlete added in his statement: “I’m currently receiving treatment including chemotherapy. I’d like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the medical professionals for their amazing help and care.

“Whilst I’m thankful for any support, I’d like to deal with this privately. My heart goes out to the many others who are also going through similar challenges right now.”

Sir Chris is an 11-time world champion with six Olympic gold medals and one silver at three different games – Athens, Beijing and London in 2012.

These medal hauls made Sir Chris the most successful British Olympian until his tally was surpassed by Sir Jason Kenny in Tokyo.

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Announcing his diagnosis, the Scot added: “As you might imagine, the last few months have been incredibly difficult.

“However, I currently feel fine – I am continuing to work, ride my bike and live my life as normal.

“It’s an exciting year of work ahead, not least with the Paris Olympics in July. I can’t wait to get stuck in, have fun and share it with you all.”

MOTD presenter Gary Lineker commented on the news, posting on X/Twitter: “Awful news. Wishing @chrishoy a full recovery. Such a lovely guy.”

Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf sent his best wishes following his announcement, writing on X/Twitter: “My very best wishes for a speedy and full recovery to the sporting legend that is Sir @chrishoy.

“I hope appeals for privacy for him and his family are heeded at what must be a difficult time for them all.”

Billy Watson, chief executive of Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH), of which he had been an ambassador since 2009, said: “We are incredibly proud to have Sir Chris as our longstanding ambassador and send our heartfelt support to Chris and his family.

“We know Chris’s commitment to the mental health cause remains as strong as ever, and we look forward to working with him in the period ahead.”

Sir Chris is still the second most decorated Olympic cyclist, with Sir Jason top and Sir Bradley Wiggins third with one less gold than his Team GB teammate.

Chris Hoy was knighted in the New Year Honours List in 2008, after winning three cycling golds at the Beijing games.

Since retiring in 2013, Sir Chris has launched new careers, including in motorsport, where he competed as a Le Mans racing driver.

He has also worked as a TV pundit on the Olympics and as an author – publishing two children’s fiction books.

Sir Chris has been married to Sarra, 38, since 2010 and they have a nine-year-old son, Callum, and a daughter, Chloe, who is six.