Six-time Olympic gold medal winner Sir Chris Hoy has officially announced his decision to retire from cycling.

It was revealed earlier this week that the Briton would make the decision and he has confirmed it during a news conference at Murrayfield.

"I am officially announcing my retirement," Hoy told reporters. "It was not a decision I took easily or lightly, but I know it's the right decision. Nothing would give me more pleasure than going to Glasgow, but I don't want to be there for the numbers.

"Being objective, I got every last drop out in London. Now it's time for younger riders to experience what it is like to compete in front of a home crowd. I will be there at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow to open it and soak up the experience.

"I have been in the sport for 19 years and witnessed how the sport has changed out of all recognition. It has gone from a minority sport to a major sport and to have been part of the journey is a massive honour."

Hoy won two of his six Olympic golds at the London Olympics.