Bradley Wiggins' father, Gary Wiggins, was a professional cyclist from Australia who abandoned Bradley when he was a baby. Gary struggled with alcohol and drug issues and had no contact with Bradley for many years. Tragically, Gary Wiggins was found unconscious with a severe head injury in January 2008 in Aberdeen, New South Wales, Australia, and later died. His death was treated as suspicious, and it was suspected that he had been murdered, although an open verdict was returned due to lack of conclusive evidence. Gary's life was marked by difficulties, including substance abuse and strained family relationships, and his absence profoundly affected Bradley Wiggins throughout his life.