Sir Chris Hoy has spoken candidly about the psychological toll of his terminal cancer diagnosis, describing the mental battle as the "biggest challenge" he faces. The 50-year-old former track cyclist was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2023, and later revealed that the disease had spread to his bones, with doctors estimating he had between two and four years to live.
Despite the prognosis, the six-time Olympic champion insists he is "doing fine" but acknowledges there are difficult periods. Speaking to The Big Issue, he said: "The mental side of a cancer diagnosis is probably the biggest challenge by far. The physical side is difficult, but the mental side is a real challenge."
He added: "I don't want to present myself as someone doing really well, everything's great, I've cracked it. There are some days where it's really tough. There are ups and downs." Hoy also offered advice, saying people can get through difficult moments by bringing themselves back to the present.
Since his diagnosis, the Scot has been involved in fundraising and awareness efforts, including his Tour de 4 charity cycling event. He also took part in the opening ceremony of Glasgow's 2026 Commonwealth Games last week and continues to offer track cycling punditry for TNT Sports, which is broadcasting the event live from July 23 to August 2.
Last year, Hoy told Sky Sports that his condition had entered a "stability stage". He explained: "I'm feeling good, exercising, riding the bike, busy and most importantly cancer is not the first thing I think about in the morning... I'm on constant medications, constant treatment, but it's not interfering too much with my life."
