Sir Bradley Wiggins claims he overheard racist, sexist and homophobic remarks during his time within British Cycling

Sir Bradley Wiggins, Britain’s first Tour de France winner and five-time Olympic gold medallist, has made serious allegations against British Cycling, claiming he overheard sexist, racist, and homophobic language during his time with the national programme.

The claims are detailed in Wiggins’ newly released autobiography, The Chain, which chronicles his 18-year career based at the Manchester Velodrome from 1998 to 2016. In the book, Wiggins describes hearing discriminatory remarks directed at fellow athletes, including Victoria Pendleton and Shanaze Reade, as well as a gay staff member. He refers to the source of the comments only as a “senior person” within the organisation, choosing not to name the individual.

The retired rider claims that the gay member of staff was subjected to homophobic language, saying the individual eventually left British Cycling after feeling he could no longer work in the environment.

“If anyone had to quit, it should have been the person who made the comment,” Wiggins wrote, suggesting that double standards existed within the organisation.

Wiggins’ revelations have sparked renewed scrutiny of the culture within elite British sport. While British Cycling has yet to issue a formal response to the latest claims, the organisation has previously stated its commitment to safeguarding and inclusivity.

The 45-year-old cyclist has been increasingly vocal about his experiences within the sport, including past trauma and abuse. His autobiography also revisits his childhood, during which he was sexually abused by his former coach, a matter Wiggins first disclosed in 2022 and has since elaborated on in interviews and writing.