Sir Bradley Wiggins is a distinguished British former professional road and track racing cyclist, whose career spanned from 2001 to 2016. He began his journey in cycling on the track, where he quickly made a name for himself by winning world titles in four disciplines, including the individual pursuit and team pursuit. Wiggins achieved remarkable success at the Olympics, securing three gold medals and becoming the first cyclist to win Olympic gold and the Tour de France in the same year, 2012. His versatility and talent allowed him to excel in both track and road cycling, making him a unique figure in the sport.
Transitioning to road cycling, Wiggins turned professional in 2001 but truly focused on this discipline from 2008 onwards. He joined Team Sky in 2010, where he claimed his first major stage race victory at the Critérium du Dauphiné in 2011. His crowning achievement came in 2012 when he won the Tour de France, becoming the first British cyclist to do so. Wiggins also showcased his time trial prowess by winning the time trial at the 2012 Summer Olympics, further solidifying his status as one of the sport’s greats.
Throughout his career, Wiggins was known for his exceptional performances in Grand Tours and stage races, having worn the leader’s jersey in all three Grand Tours and holding multiple world records in team pursuit. He continued to compete at a high level, winning gold in the team pursuit at the 2016 Olympics, marking his fifth consecutive medal appearance at the Games. His contributions to cycling have earned him numerous accolades, including a knighthood in 2013 and the title of Great Britain’s most decorated Olympian at the time.
After retiring from professional cycling in 2016, Wiggins has remained active in the sport through various initiatives, including founding the WIGGINS cycling team and engaging in commentary and analysis. His legacy in cycling is not only defined by his medals and records but also by his role in inspiring future generations of cyclists. Wiggins continues to be a prominent figure in the cycling community, advocating for the sport and sharing his experiences with aspiring athletes.