Sir Chris Hoy: Britain’s six-time Olympic gold medallist confirms he is receiving treatment for cancer

Sir Chris Hoy has revealed that he is currently receiving treatment for cancer.

The six-time Olympic champion announced the news on Instagram and gave an update on his condition.

“I have a bit of news,” Sir Chris wrote. “Last year, I was diagnosed with cancer, which came as a huge shock, having had no symptoms up to that point.

“I’m currently receiving treatment including chemotherapy, which thankfully is going really well. I’d like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the medical professionals for their amazing help and care.”

Hoy also said he “had hoped to keep this information private” but that he “has been forced” to go public.

The 47-year-old didn’t give a prognosis but insisted it is not affecting his day-to-day life and expressed his excitement to be working at the Paris Olympics this summer.

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

“I’m optimistic, positive and surrounded by love for which I’m truly grateful. As you can 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.”

Sir Chris is a cycling icon and finished his career as Britain’s most decorated Olympian before being overtaken by Jason Kenny.

He claimed his first Olympic medal in 2000 with silver in the team sprint alongside Craig MacLean and Jason Queally before winning gold in 2004 in the 1km track time trial.

Hoy won a hat-trick of golds in the 2008 games before claiming gold in the team sprint and in the keirin at London 2012, his final Olympics.

He is also an 11-time world champion and retired from cycling in 2013.