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Victoria Pendleton Announces Death of Father Max After Parkinson’s Battle

Her tribute reflects his lasting influence on grassroots cycling.

Overview

  • Pendleton said Max Pendleton died on 11 October following a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease and later Parkinson’s dementia.
  • She shared the news in an Instagram post featuring a photo of her father alongside her twin brother Alex, who died from a brain tumour in 2023.
  • Pendleton credited her father’s belief and guidance with enabling her achievements as a two-time Olympic cycling champion.
  • Max Pendleton was a former British grass-track champion who helped organise local races and supported entry-level participation in the sport.
  • Coverage notes Pendleton’s past candour about mental health difficulties after retirement, including her acknowledgement of help from psychiatrist Dr Steve Peters.