Chris Boardman

In 1992, Chris Boardman won Britain’s first Olympic cycling gold medal in 73 years. He went on to claim several world titles and wore the leader’s jersey in the Tour de France on three occasions before retiring in 2000.

After his sporting career, Chris played a pivotal role in transforming British Cycling into a global powerhouse and founded Boardman Bikes. The eponymous brand quickly became Britain’s fastest-growing bike company and expanded its reach to over 80 countries. Chris’s passion for cycling evolved into a broader commitment to promoting active travel and helping people integrate physical activity into their daily lives. Collaborating closely with Regional Mayor Andy Burnham, he became Greater Manchester’s first Active Travel Commissioner. He later established Active Travel England on behalf of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

In addition to his role as England’s Active Travel Commissioner, Chris has chaired Sport England for the past four years, guiding the sector through the challenges of the pandemic and championing efforts to make sport and physical activity accessible to everyone—regardless of background or income.