Wiggins Reveals Addiction, Homelessness in Autobiography

Sir Bradley Wiggins, Britain's first Tour de France winner and a five-time Olympic gold medalist, revealed he became a functioning cocaine addict after retiring in 2016, citing unresolved childhood abuse, public scandals, and bankruptcy as contributing factors. His addiction led to severe financial hardship including the loss of his homes and much of his fortune, with his family fearing for his life and considering rehab. Wiggins ultimately quit drugs about a year ago without external intervention, though disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong offered to fund his therapy and has been supportive. Wiggins now reports feeling more at peace and remains active in cycling through supporting his son Ben, an emerging professional cyclist. He openly discusses how addiction was a form of self-sabotage rooted in self-hatred and past trauma. These revelations are detailed in his autobiography, 'The Chain,' which sheds light on both his achievements and his battles with addiction and mental health.