Wiggins reveals the secret, scientific key behind becoming an Olympic champion

Wiggins, a five-time gold medallist between 2004 and 2016, has revelled in watching Matt Walls, Laura Kenny and Elinor Barker star for Team GB at the Izu Velodrome this summer.

And the 2012 Tour de France champion, who is front and centre of Eurosport and discovery+’s cutting edge coverage of the Games, has been shining an eminent light on exactly what’s required to sparkle at the highest level.

Wiggins has been immersing himself in The Cube, Eurosport's new, extended reality studio that connects viewers to the action and insight like never before.

And speaking on the precise science behind what it takes to win gold, the 41-year-old said: "Anyone watching my sport can see the riders sticking to the back wheel of the cyclist in front.

TOKYO 2020 OLYMPICS - BRADLEY WIGGINS EXPLAINS WHY DRAFTING NEGATES A RIDER’S ‘BIGGEST ENEMY’

“But why do we do it and why do we ride in the slipstream?

"The main reason for riding in the slipstream, or drafting as we call it, is to conserve energy. The biggest enemy of the rider is wind resistance, so by tucking in behind the rider in front you can save up to 40 per cent of your energy.

"Here's the science bit: the rider in front pushes through the air, which diverts an air stream around the side of the bike and creates a pocket of pressure.

"This means the rider behind needs to use less effort - but techniques may vary depending on whether you're on the track or the road.

"How close do you get to the rider in front? It's a skill that defines the difference between not just good, but great - which lots of riders find hard to achieve.

“It's a balancing act - the closer the better, but the more risk you have of crashing out of the race.

“Ride in the slipstream, conserve your energy and remember; it takes extreme focus to execute a perfect performance and win gold."

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