SIX-TIME OLYMPIC champion Chris Hoy has announced he has been diagnosed with cancer.

The 47-year-old former track star said he is currently undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy, saying it is “going really well” and that he currently feels “fine”.

Writing on his Instagram account, Hoy said: “I have a bit of news. Last year I was diagnosed with cancer, which came as a huge shock, having had no symptoms up to that point.

“I’m currently receiving treatment including chemotherapy, which thankfully is going really well.

“I’d like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the medical professionals for their amazing help and care.”

The Scot said he had planned to keep the information private but that his “hand has been forced” as he looked forward to an “exciting year of work ahead”.

“For the sake of my young family, I had hoped to keep this information private but regrettably our hand has been forced,” said Hoy.

“Whilst I’m thankful for any support, I’d like to deal with this privately.

“My heart goes out to the many others who are also going through similar challenges right now.

“I’m optimistic, positive and surrounded by love for which I’m truly grateful. As you might imagine, the last few months have been incredibly difficult.

“However, I currently feel fine – I am continuing to work, ride my bike and live my life as normal.

“It’s an exciting year of work ahead, not least with the Paris Olympics in July. I can’t wait to get stuck in, have fun and share it with you all.”

Edinburgh-born Hoy took up cycling at the age of 14 and won his first Olympic medal, a team sprint silver, at Sydney in 2000.

Hoy followed that up by winning gold in the 1 km track time trial at Athens in 2004.

He added to his gold medal haul by winning three more at Beijing four years later and two at London 2012.

Hoy also won 11 world titles and was knighted in the 2008 New Year Honours List after his success at the Beijing Olympics.