Linford Christie Reflects on His Career in New Documentary

Linford Christie, a legendary figure in British athletics known for his sprinting prowess, is set to reflect on his life and career in a new documentary airing on BBC One. This highly anticipated show will premiere on Thursday, July 25, at 8:30 PM.

The 90-minute documentary features exclusive interviews with Christie, his family, friends, and fellow athletes, including notable figures like Sally Gunnell and Jonathan Edwards. Young athletes under his guidance, such as Daren Campbell and Katherine Merry, also share their insights.

Christie, who has been approached to create this documentary for over 15 years, finally agreed after encouragement from friends. He expressed his hope that it would serve as a lasting legacy for his children. “I have not been the type of person who naturally reflects on my life, so it was a challenge, but I appreciate how far I’ve come,” he said.

Since stepping away from international athletics in 1997, the father-of-eight has turned his attention to broadcasting, presenting shows like Record Breakers and Garden Invaders. He has dabbled in acting with appearances in series such as Absolutely Fabulous and Grange Hill.

In recent years, he has taken part in reality television, featuring in shows including The Jump and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!. He also ran a youth engagement program called Street Athletics from 2005 to 2017, which was supported by the Home Office and the Department Of Justice in Scotland.

At the age of 64, Christie is now an athletics coach at Brunel University in Uxbridge. Despite feeling fit compared to the average person, he humbly admits, “I’m not really that fit anymore” when compared to the athletes he coaches.

Christie’s athletic achievements are remarkable. He won 24 medals throughout his career, becoming a world champion and making history as the only British man to claim gold in the 100m at all four major competitions: the Olympic Games, World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games.

His Olympic victory in the 100m at the Barcelona Games in 1992 was followed by a string of successes at other major events, including the World Championships in Stuttgart and the European Cup in Birmingham.

However, his career was marred by controversy in 1999 when he tested positive for the banned substance nandrolone. Although UK Athletics acquitted him, the International Association of Athletics Federation imposed a two-year suspension, effectively ending his competitive career. Christie consistently argues that he did not intentionally use any banned substances.

In addition, his personal life has been punctuated by challenges, including allegations of infidelity and the legal troubles of his son, Liam Oliver-Christie, who was jailed for drug dealing in 2018.

As Christie reflects on his past, he candidly addresses the impact of his positive drug test and its consequences, including a lifelong ban from the British Olympic Association. Despite these setbacks, he remains a vocal advocate against doping in sports.