New OU/BBC documentary looks back on the career of Linford Christie

A new OU/BBC documentary ‘Linford’ looks back on the extraordinary career of one of Britain’s most successful athletes, Linford Christie. The documentary delves into the life of the man who was one of the most celebrated athletes in Britain, until his career closed with a scandal that shocked the nation.

In the late 80’s and 90’s Linford Christie dominated the world of sprinting, winning successive golds at the Olympic Games, World Championships, European Championships and Commonwealth Games. His victories united the nation in celebration and prompted endless media coverage of his life. 

However, in 1999 everything changed when he came out of retirement for one last race and tested positive for the drug nandrolone – a scandal which saw his reputation ruined.

Twenty-five years later, Linford dares to confront his complicated legacy in a story about respect and reputation in an era of unchecked racism and tabloid power.

Dr Caroline Heaney, Senior Lecturer in Sport and Fitness, consultant academic to the series said:

“Linford was a big character on and off the track and this documentary explores his journey without shying away from the difficult topics, like the racism he experienced and his drugs ban.

As a track and field athlete competing in the 1990s Linford Christie was always a hero of mine and so working on this documentary was a huge honour. It bought back lots of memories not just of Linford’s career but also of my own athletics journey.”

Ben Oakley, Professor of Sports Performance Education who also consulted on the series, said:

“This is an athletics career story with many interesting chapters, which encourages us to consider what it takes to make it to the top, and also survive racism and media scrutiny. What shines through is Linford’s drive for excellence in himself and his support of others. Working on this programme provided an insight into the high and lows of sporting success and life in the public eye”.

Watch the ‘Linford’ trailer:

In support of the programme, our academic experts have produced an animated interactive exploring why athletic performances continue to improve and why, in specific instances, they haven’t. From improved coaching to enhanced technology and diversity on the track, you can uncover the key factors helping to advance the sport. Visit the ‘Linford’ page on our Broadcast & Partnerships site.

Watch 'Linford' on BBC iPlayer. 
'Linford' was originally broadcast on BBC1 on Thursday 24 July 2024. 

This programme was commissioned by The Open University’s Broadcast and Partnerships team and is supported by the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies.
It is of particular relevance to students studying our Sports and Fitness courses:

BSc (Hons) Sport, Fitness and Coaching

Diploma of Higher Education in Sport and Fitness

Cert HE in Sport, Fitness and Management

Athletic Development: a psychological perspective

Contemporary sport and exercise issues 

View all Sport and Fitness courses.