A Cycling Legend’s Fall from Grace
Bradley Wiggins, a name synonymous with British cycling, has had a career that any athlete would envy. As the first British cyclist to win the Tour de France in 2012, he achieved a feat that had eluded British cyclists for decades. His success on the track and road garnered him a total of eight Olympic medals, including five golds, and he was knighted in 2013 for his contributions to the sport. However, his life post-retirement has been a stark contrast to the glory he once enjoyed. Wiggins has openly discussed his struggles with drug addiction, financial issues, and the impact of sexual abuse in his youth.
The Dark Side of Fame
Despite his illustrious career, Wiggins has had to confront a series of personal and financial challenges that have tested his resilience. One of the most significant issues he has faced is his battle with drug addiction. Wiggins revealed that within three years of retiring in 2016, he had become a drug addict, a struggle he attributes to the trauma of being sexually abused as a teenager. "The contradiction is that the coach who abused me was my first male role model in cycling," he told The Telegraph. "I had grown up with an absent father, and so this man instilled a confidence in me as a bike rider. Wherever he went, he would tell everyone: ‘This kid’s going to be special.’ It kind of offset what was going on behind the scenes. There were other kids at the club it was happening to as well. We were normalised to the behaviour, made to feel there was nothing wrong with it."
Financial Struggles and Bankruptcy
In addition to his personal battles, Wiggins has also faced severe financial difficulties. A company controlled by Wiggins reportedly had debts totaling around £1 million. After failing his individual voluntary agreement (IVA) to pay back the money he owed, he was declared bankrupt in June 2022. The situation was so dire that Wiggins was left homeless, reportedly sleeping at various addresses, including that of his ex-wife. He even considered selling his Olympic medals to make ends meet. Wiggins attributed his financial issues to a lack of attention to his financial affairs during his cycling career. "I regret I never paid attention to my financial affairs when I was racing. It’s one of the things that happens to athletes – you make a lot of money and, if you haven’t got your eyes on it, people take advantage. I was getting ripped off left, right and centre by the people looking after me. Accountants as well."
A Turnaround in Fortune
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Wiggins is now in a much better place. He has settled his debts and is working to rebuild his life. "It’s all resolved now. I’m on the front foot now. This was something that was done to me. Eight months on, it has all turned around. The people who are responsible are paying a heavy price for it. Fortunately, it’s all good. My life’s in a good place," he said. In September 2024, Wiggins took his first bike ride in nearly three years and invited fans to join him on a 50-mile route across Staffordshire for a donation of £50 per person. This event not only marked his return to cycling but also served as a way to reconnect with his fans and supporters.
The Lasting Impact of Trauma
Wiggins’ journey from the pinnacle of success to the depths of personal and financial struggle is a testament to the hidden toll of trauma and the importance of mental health. His experiences highlight the need for better support systems for athletes, both during and after their careers. The sexual abuse he endured as a teenager had a profound impact on his life, leading to struggles with alcohol and drugs. "You’re only 13, but it leads to a really dark period. Within three years of retiring, I was a drug addict. And a lot of it was to do with this recall of my childhood," he explained. Despite the darkness, Wiggins is now focusing on his recovery and using his experiences to help others.
Looking Forward
Bradley Wiggins’ story is one of triumph and tragedy, but ultimately, it is a story of resilience and redemption. His openness about his struggles has not only helped him but has also raised awareness about the issues faced by many athletes in the post-retirement phase. Wiggins is determined to stay on the path of recovery and is optimistic about the future. His return to cycling and his efforts to reconnect with his fans are signs of a man who is not only determined to rebuild his life but also to inspire others who may be facing similar challenges. As he continues to move forward, Wiggins remains a symbol of perseverance and hope.
