Lance Armstrong Current Pursuits and Activities
Former Cyclist's Current Pursuits and Ventures
Lance Armstrong, once a cycling icon and seven-time Tour de France champion, has transformed his life since his fall from grace in 2012. The former professional cyclist faced a lifetime ban from competitive cycling due to doping allegations, which he later admitted to in a 2013 interview with Oprah Winfrey.
Today, Armstrong focuses on business ventures and philanthropy, including managing a venture capital firm called Next Ventures. The firm aims to invest in health and wellness startups, leveraging Armstrong's experience in the sports and fitness industry. He has also invested in companies like Uber and DocuSign, showcasing his broader interests beyond cycling.
Despite the controversies surrounding his cycling career, Armstrong continues to contribute to cancer awareness and support. His Livestrong Foundation, although no longer bearing his name, remains active in assisting cancer survivors. Armstrong himself has been open about his personal struggles, revealing that he underwent therapy to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder following the doping scandal.
Career Overview
Lance Armstrong's cycling career was marked by remarkable achievements and devastating controversy. His journey from professional cyclist to disgraced athlete captivated the sports world for over two decades.
Rise to Fame
Armstrong began cycling professionally in 1992 at age 21. He quickly made a name for himself, winning the World Road Race Championship in 1993. In 1996, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer that had spread to his brain and lungs.
After successful treatment, Armstrong returned to cycling in 1998. His comeback story inspired millions and brought increased attention to the sport of cycling.
Tour de France Victories
From 1999 to 2005, Armstrong dominated the Tour de France, winning an unprecedented seven consecutive titles. His performances were hailed as superhuman, cementing his status as a cycling legend.
Armstrong's success extended beyond the Tour. He won a bronze medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and secured victories in other prestigious races.
Doping Allegations
Throughout his career, Armstrong faced persistent allegations of doping. He vehemently denied these claims, often taking legal action against accusers.
Investigations intensified after his 2005 retirement. Former teammates came forward with damaging testimony. In 2012, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) formally charged Armstrong with using performance-enhancing drugs.
Downfall and Confession
In August 2012, Armstrong chose not to contest the USADA charges. He was stripped of his seven Tour de France titles and banned from competitive cycling for life.
In January 2013, Armstrong confessed to doping in a televised interview with Oprah Winfrey. He admitted to using EPO, testosterone, and human growth hormone throughout his career.
The confession led to a swift and dramatic fall from grace. Armstrong lost sponsorships, was forced to step down from his Livestrong Foundation, and faced numerous lawsuits.
Life After Professional Cycling
Lance Armstrong's life after professional cycling has been marked by legal battles, shifts in public perception, business pursuits, and ongoing cancer advocacy efforts.
Legal Challenges and Lawsuits
Armstrong faced numerous legal challenges following his doping admission. In 2013, the U.S. Department of Justice joined a whistleblower lawsuit against him. The case alleged Armstrong defrauded the government by using performance-enhancing drugs while sponsored by the U.S. Postal Service.
In 2018, Armstrong reached a $5 million settlement in this case. He also paid $1.65 million to cover legal costs for his former teammate Floyd Landis, who initiated the lawsuit.
Various entities sought to recover money from Armstrong. This included book publishers demanding refunds for his autobiographies and the Sunday Times seeking repayment of a libel settlement.
Public Perception and Media
Armstrong's public image underwent a dramatic transformation. Once celebrated as a cycling hero and cancer survivor, he became a controversial figure after admitting to doping.
In 2013, Armstrong gave a tell-all interview to Oprah Winfrey. He confessed to using performance-enhancing drugs throughout his career. This admission shocked many fans and further damaged his reputation.
Media coverage of Armstrong has been mixed. Some outlets focus on his fall from grace, while others highlight his efforts to rebuild his life and continue cancer advocacy work.
Armstrong has maintained a presence on social media. He uses platforms like Twitter to share his thoughts on cycling and personal life.
Business Ventures
After cycling, Armstrong pursued various business interests. He invested in a coffee shop in Aspen, Colorado called "Juan Pelota Cafe." The name is a playful reference to his cancer experience.
Armstrong launched a podcast called "The Move" in 2017. It covers cycling events and features interviews with sports personalities. The podcast has gained a following among cycling enthusiasts.
He also invested in a beer company called "Next Ventures." This firm focuses on sports, fitness, nutrition, and wellness startups.
Armstrong's business pursuits have allowed him to remain connected to the sports world while exploring new entrepreneurial opportunities.
Contributions to Cancer Awareness
Despite controversy, Armstrong has continued his involvement in cancer awareness initiatives. He founded Livestrong in 1997, originally named the Lance Armstrong Foundation.
Armstrong stepped down from Livestrong's board in 2012 amid the doping scandal. However, he remains committed to cancer advocacy through other channels.
He has participated in various cancer awareness events and fundraisers. Armstrong often shares his experiences as a cancer survivor to inspire and support others battling the disease.
His efforts in this area have been recognized by some as separate from his cycling career controversies. Many acknowledge his positive impact on cancer research and patient support.
Current Endeavors
Lance Armstrong has channeled his energy into various pursuits since retiring from professional cycling. His activities span advocacy, media, and business ventures.
Advocacy and Public Speaking
Armstrong continues to advocate for cancer awareness and research. He frequently speaks at events, sharing his experience as a cancer survivor. His efforts focus on supporting patients and promoting early detection. Armstrong has also addressed topics related to sports ethics and doping prevention in collegiate and professional athletics. He collaborates with organizations to develop educational programs aimed at young athletes.
Podcast Host and Media Presence
"The Forward" podcast, hosted by Armstrong, features conversations with notable figures from sports, entertainment, and business. The show has gained popularity for its candid discussions and high-profile guests. Armstrong also makes occasional appearances on sports networks as a cycling commentator. His insights on major races and industry developments are sought after, despite his controversial past.
Entrepreneurship and Investments
Armstrong has ventured into the business world with Next Ventures, a venture capital firm he co-founded. The company invests in sports, fitness, and wellness startups. He serves on the board of SRAM Corporation, a bicycle component manufacturer. Armstrong's business interests extend to the hospitality sector, with investments in several restaurants and bars in Austin, Texas. His entrepreneurial activities leverage his cycling expertise and connections in the sports industry.
Notable Collaborations and Projects
Lance Armstrong has remained active in various ventures since retiring from professional cycling. His pursuits span philanthropy, business, and media appearances.
Livestrong Foundation
Armstrong founded the Livestrong Foundation in 1997 to support cancer patients and survivors. The organization has raised over $500 million for cancer research and support programs. Despite Armstrong's doping scandal, Livestrong continues its mission, though he stepped down from its board in 2012.
The foundation provides free services to cancer patients, including fertility preservation and emotional support. It also funds research initiatives and advocates for policies to improve cancer care access.
Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop
In 2008, Armstrong opened Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop in Austin, Texas. The store sells bikes, equipment, and apparel. It also offers repair services and hosts community events.
Mellow Johnny's has become a hub for cycling enthusiasts in Austin. The shop sponsors local races and organizes group rides. It has expanded to include a coffee shop and a training facility.
Media Publications and Documentaries
Armstrong has been the subject of several documentaries and media projects. ESPN's "30 for 30" series released "Lance" in 2020, a two-part documentary examining his career and fall from grace.
He appeared on NBC Sports as a guest commentator for the 2017 Tour de France. In 2023, Armstrong participated in the reality TV show "Stars on Mars" on Fox.
Armstrong co-hosts "The Move" podcast, which covers cycling and endurance sports. He has also written two books: "It's Not About the Bike" and "Every Second Counts."
Personal Life and Interests
Lance Armstrong resides in Austin, Texas, where he has lived since 1990. The former cyclist maintains strong ties to the city and its vibrant community.
Armstrong's personal interests extend beyond cycling. He has diversified his focus into wellness and entrepreneurship, investing in various startups and businesses.
His investment portfolio includes stakes in companies like Uber and DocuSign, showcasing his broader business acumen. Armstrong has also ventured into the venture capital world, aiming to raise significant funds for new projects.
Cycling remains a part of Armstrong's life, though not in a competitive capacity. He participates in recreational rides and occasionally attends cycling events as a spectator.
Armstrong's net worth, while affected by past controversies, still allows him a comfortable lifestyle. He continues to reinvent himself through business ventures and public appearances.
The former athlete has been open about experiencing PTSD following his fall from grace in the sports world. This has led him to focus on personal growth and mental health awareness.
In 2022, Armstrong married his longtime partner Anna Hansen in France, marking a new chapter in his personal life. The couple shares two children, in addition to Armstrong's three children from a previous marriage.
