Sir Chris Hoy showed that he did not want to focus on the news of his terminal cancer diagnosis during the BBC’s coverage of the UCI Track Cycling World Championships in Denmark on Sunday.
The Team GB Olympian revealed this weekend that he has been given between ‘two and four years’ to live in a gut-wrenching admission, having been undergoing chemotherapy since September 2023.
Hoy has remained positive on the situation though and said he felt ‘lucky’ to be able to receive treatment for the cancer. He has also continued to work as a pundit since the diagnosis, making his first BBC appearance since the harrowing interview on Sunday.
Presenter Jill Douglas opened the show by talking about the action in Copenhagen, prompting Hoy to recall some of his positive memories at the track rather than providing further updates on his health.
Despite there being plenty of talk around the 11-time world champion, Hoy highlighted that he wanted the focus to be on the World Championship final rather than himself by saying: “I’m doing well. Having a great week, some incredible performances and hopefully some more to come.
“It’s always great to be back in the track centre, so many familiar faces – teammates, coaches, rivals. Happy memories for me too coming back to Copenhagen from 2002 and 2010.”
Ahead of the show, Hoy posted on social media too to thank supporters for their well wishes.
He posted a picture on Instagram alongside those also working in Denmark with the caption: “Great to be out in Copenhagen for the World Track Cycling Championships broadcasting with the wonderful BBC sport team.
“Some truly incredible performances; world records and a new generation of future stars showing us what they can do. You may see in the news this weekend some articles about my health, so 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. Onwards!”
Plenty of British sports stars responded by praising Hoy for how he has dealt with the diagnosis with such bravery and strength, with Dame Kelly Holmes and Ally McCoist among those to send messages of support in response to the post.
