Pidcock’s younger brother shares emotional message: "It was like having to learn everything in life at 21"

The brothers from Leeds both rose through the ranks via Trinity Racing, where Joey continued to compete over the past two years. While he didn’t achieve standout results, 2024 felt like a liberating year for him. In an Instagram post, he explains why.

"November 2023 I started on ADHD medication soon after a diagnosis and it completely changed my life. It was as if I suddenly stopped walking through three feet deep water like I had all my life," Joey began his story.

"Within 4 months I won my first race in over three years. Another month later I won my first UCI race. It’s not like the medication is magic. They couldn’t fix my concussion or cure Covid, which ruined the rest of my year. I still need to see a phycologist every week and I’m not saying I don’t have to work for what I want. But before I always felt depressed and unmotivated. I had a hard time socializing, making and especially keeping friends. And that’s not just motivation for cycling, it’s everything. Like seeing friends, cooking dinner, texting my mum back, going to sleep, getting out of bed," he shared in his emotional post.

The hardest part for Joey was that he couldn’t help himself. He didn’t even realize that how he felt wasn’t normal. As a result, he didn’t seek help, even though it was exactly what he needed to overcome his struggles. Now, he’s finally found part of the solution. "It was like having to learn everything in life at 21. I’ve come a long way but I think it’s fair to say I’ve still work to do," wrote the 22-year-old Brit.

"It’s very possible I have Aspergers and ADHD but I don’t think the label matters. I don’t want sympathy for any of this, I just think the world thinks ADHD just means you can’t sit still in school but from my experience it’s a lot more sinister than that. Basically I owe everything to my family for getting me to where I needed to be. I’d be a bit fucked without you. Thanks, Mom!"

Joey feels right at home with his new Swiss team. He’s also thrilled to now be racing on the same team as his older brother. "I’m really grateful and excited for the years ahead. I wouldn’t have accepted a place here if I didn’t think I was capable. I’ll make sure it’s worth everyone’s time. Thank you to everyone that got me here and to everyone that will get me further," Joey Pidcock concludes his story.