Six-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy is set for a poignant return to Alexandra Palace this Saturday for the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship final. The Team GB cycling icon will be back at the 'Ally Pally' stage exactly a year after he presented the trophy to a then 17-year-old Luke Littler.
Hoy's 'True Marvel' Verdict on Luke Littler
Speaking ahead of this year's tournament, Sir Chris Hoy offered glowing praise for reigning champion Luke Littler, whose composure last year left a lasting impression. Hoy, who secured six Olympic golds and 11 world titles in cycling, understands elite pressure but was astounded by the teenager's demeanour.
"What was remarkable was how Luke Littler, even if he'd been in his late 30s, early 40s, a veteran of his sport, he would still be impressive, but he was 17," Hoy told Sky Sports. He highlighted the unique mental challenge of darts, a skill that normally takes decades to master under pressure.
Hoy emphasised that Littler's age made his calmness extraordinary. "It's his coolness under pressure, but relative to his age. That was the unique thing that stood out," he said. The cycling legend noted that Littler seemed "unaffected by this cavalcade, chaos around him" and has proven his world title was no one-off, calling him a "true marvel" of sport.
Charity Mission Behind Darts Final Appearance
Hoy's attendance at the final is driven by his role as an ambassador for Prostate Cancer UK. Tournament sponsor Paddy Power has partnered with the charity for its 'Even Bigger 180' campaign, pledging £1,000 for every 180 scored and a staggering £180,000 for every nine-dart finish.
Earlier this week, Hoy posted on social media celebrating that the campaign had raised over £1 million with days still remaining. "The funds raised will make a tangible difference in the fight against prostate cancer," he stated, expressing his delight to support the campaign again.
In a related initiative, one supporter was randomly selected to compete for £180,000 on the Ally Pally stage by hitting a 180 in nine darts, after donating through the Darts of Destiny campaign which has itself generated over £120,000.
Positive Outlook Amid Health Challenges
Beyond sport, Sir Chris Hoy continues to bravely face his health battles. He revealed a terminal prostate cancer diagnosis in October 2024, having first shared he was receiving treatment in February of that year. Doctors have given him an estimated two to four years to live.
Despite this, the 49-year-old recently provided a positive update, noting he is responding well to treatment. He is also recovering from a broken leg sustained in a serious mountain bike accident.
Speaking on The Sports Agents podcast, Hoy said: "I'm doing all right. It's been a funny couple of years, but it changes your perspective on everything... I'm doing really well." He spoke of reaching a stage of acceptance and learning to live in the moment, especially for the sake of his young family.
"You just have to get on with it," he added. "It's not easy but you find your way through and once you do, you recognise that you're still in the same position. None of us know what's going to happen in the future." His commitment to raising awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer UK remains unwavering as he prepares for his return to the darts spotlight.
