Fans ‘in tears’ as terminally ill Sir Chris Hoy gets rousing reception before Scotland vs Ireland Six Nations clash
RUGBY fans were reduced to tears after watching Sir Chris Hoy receive a rousing reception before Scotland hosted Ireland in the Six Nations.
The cycling and Team GB Olympic icon revealed that he's battling terminal prostate cancer in a heartbreaking and incredibly brave Instagram post last year.
Scottish sporting icon Hoy brought Murrayfield to a standstill as the crowd rose to his feet for a standing ovation this Sunday.
Britain's most decorated Olympic star performed two ceremonial duties ahead of kick-off in Scotland's crunch clash.
After the anthems, Hoy was given a guard of honour from both benches as he emerged out of the tunnel to a thunderous applause.
He hugged former Scotland captain Rob Wainwright, who has been cycling around the UK and Ireland for the Doddie Foundation.
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The 48-year-old waved to fans around the stadium as he walked to the middle of the pitch to deliver the match ball to referee James Doleman.
Sir Chris looked overcome with emotion as he appeared to fight back tears as he walked back towards the sideline.
Hollywood star Gerard Butler, who was in the crowd, was seen filming the event as Hoy walked off the pitch ready for the game to start.
He was wearing a Scotland jersey with his 'Hoy' name on the back.
And the Edinburgh speedster's walk left viewers distraught.
One wrote on X: "I'm in absolute bits here watching Hoy bring out the match ball. What a legend 💪🏼."
A second said: "What an inspiration Chris Hoy is. Tears have been shed."
Another added: "Chris Hoy is one of the all time greats. Had a wee year in my eye there 😥."
Earlier, Hoy was accompanied by his wife Sarra Kemp, as he drove the Lead the Legends car at the front of the Scotland team bus arrival.
Co-captain Rory Darge revealed that he hopes the presence of Hoy can inspire Scotland to victory over the Irish.
Hoy’s involvement comes as he continues his fight against terminal prostate cancer, a diagnosis he revealed last year.
Since going public, Hoy has spearheaded several initiatives to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, with his Tour de 4 Ride campaign among the latest efforts.
He also presented the the Ballon d’Art trophy to Luke Littler a few days before the teen was crowed world champ in January.