Television presenter Jeremy Clarkson helped raise $1 million for six-time Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy's cancer charity by encouraging donations from wealthy helicopter owners at an auction.
Clarkson, who is in remission after undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, hosted the fundraising auction last month at a clay pigeon shoot event in Northamptonshire. The event was organized by former Red Bull Formula 1 team principal Christian Horner.
According to Sir Chris, the fundraising total reached $850,000 through ticket sales and initial auction items. When the organizers aimed to reach the $1 million mark, Clarkson reportedly approached individuals who arrived at the event by helicopter and asked them for an additional $10,000 each. This appeal reportedly generated the final $150,000 needed to reach the $1 million goal.
Sir Chris, who was diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer, founded the Tour de 4 cycle challenge to raise funds for cancer charities. He described Clarkson's approach as "astonishing" and noted that "nobody else would have gotten away with doing that but he has that presence."
Clarkson, 66, publicly shared his diagnosis of an "aggressive" form of prostate cancer in June. He underwent surgery and is now in remission. Sir Chris, 50, revealed his terminal prostate cancer diagnosis in 2024 and has since become an advocate for improved cancer screening. His wife, Sarra, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis shortly after his diagnosis.
The Tour de four charity cycle challenge is organizing its second event in Glasgow this September. The inaugural event in 2025 saw over 5,000 participants and raised more than $3.1 million for various cancer charities, including Macmillan Cancer Support, Breast Cancer Now, Cure Leukaemia, Prostate Cancer UK, and Maggie's.