The Interview Sir Bradley Wiggins: I couldn’t see hope or joy
Nov 5, 2025
Sir Bradley Wiggins, the first Briton to win the Tour de France and a five-time Olympic gold medallist, shares his tumultuous journey through fame, loss, and recovery. He candidly discusses the pain of childhood abuse from a coach and the ensuing struggles with drug addiction. Wiggins reflects on the challenges surrounding doping allegations and the importance of reclaiming his narrative through his book. He emphasizes the vital role of family love in his recovery and how he now values personal growth over past accolades.
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The Jiffy Bag Controversy
- Wiggins described the 2011 jiffy bag controversy and subsequent investigations that never conclusively identified its contents.
- He and Team Sky denied wrongdoing and he says the allegations felt like a smear that hung over his career.
Revealing Long‑Held Abuse
- Bradley Wiggins revealed he had been groomed and sexually abused by his first coach and carried that secret for 25–30 years.
- Telling Alastair Campbell in an emotional interview lifted a weight and later prompted other victims to come forward.
Owning Your Narrative
- Writing his book gave Wiggins control to present his story with context, perspective, and time to reflect.
- He sees the book as the first thorough account rather than reactive interviews under stress.