Sir Bradley Wiggins to compete at Glasgow 2014

Sir Bradley Wiggins said it would be nice to win in the UK. Picture: Getty

The cyclist said he hoped to add a gold from the 2014 Games to his glittering haul of seven Olympic medals – including four golds – and his memorable Tour de France triumph two years ago.

The 33-year-old said he had initially “forgotten” about the prospect of racing in the Commonwealth Games, but said it would be “nice” to win again on British soil soon after this year’s Tour de France.

Sir Bradley, who competes for Team Sky, said: “I haven’t got a gold medal from the Commonwealths so it would be nice to add that on, and it’s a couple of days after the Tour… for the sake of carrying on for a few more days and doing it.

“I forgot about the Commonwealths. I’m glad you reminded me, actually, because I’ve got to fill a form in otherwise I can’t ride it. It’s a nice thing to have within the UK.”

Sir Bradley’s announcement that he plans to race for England means that the Games in Glasgow will enjoy the high profile bestowed by one of the country’s best-known sporting icons.

Jessica Ennis-Hill announced at the start of the year that she will not be competing in Scotland because she is expecting a baby, while organisers are continuing work behind the scenes to convince Mo Farah and international stars such as Usain Bolt to commit to running at Hampden.

Other British stars who have signalled their intention to vie for gold in Glasgow include diver Tom Daley and boxer Nicola Adams.

The home crowd will have local heroes Michael Jamieson, Robbie Renwick and Hannah Miley to cheer for.