Fear and Gibson Shine as Team GB Starts Olympic Event with Season’s Best
Team GB has commenced its figure skating journey at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. The opening day of the Figure Skating Team Event saw British athletes competing in various categories, including ice dance, pairs, and women’s singles. A notable highlight was the impressive performance by Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson, who achieved a season’s best score.
Fear and Gibson Shine in Rhythm Dance
Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson excelled in the Rhythm Dance, securing third place with a score of 86.85. This remarkable achievement provided a significant boost to Team GB, earning them eight points in the overall standings.
Fear’s Reflection
Expressing her pride, Fear commented, “We did exactly what we needed to do under pressure. We just had fun.” She noted their desire to achieve a higher placement but felt satisfied with their current position, stating that it reinforced their confidence.
Gibson’s Insights
Gibson added, “We attacked it. The music inspired us.” Reflecting on their experience, he mentioned the maturity gained since their last Olympics, emphasizing a better balance of excitement and focus.
Pairs and Women’s Singles Update
In the Pairs Short Program, Anastasia Vaipan-Law and Luke Digby finished ninth with a score of 57.29, contributing two team points to Team GB’s total.
Vaipan-Law and Digby’s Performance
Vaipan-Law acknowledged the special feeling of skating on Olympic ice, admitting to a mixed performance. Digby shared the challenges they faced due to injuries but expressed gratitude for being ready to compete.
Spours’ Olympic Debut
Kristen Spours capped off the first day for Team GB in the Women’s Short Program, finishing tenth with a score of 48.28. Spours expressed her excitement at finally being an Olympian, feeling a sense of relief and motivation.
Understanding the Olympic Figure Skating Team Event
The Team Event consists of a nation-versus-nation competition that incorporates four disciplines: men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance. Points are awarded based on placement in each segment. Only the top five teams advance to the medal-deciding stages.
Upcoming Competitions
Edward Appleby is set to compete in the Men’s Short Program on February 7 at 19:45 local time (18:45 UK), which will conclude the qualification phase for Team GB.
Follow the Olympics
For the latest updates, results, and schedules related to Team GB, visit the British Ice Skating Olympic Hub. Viewers in the UK can catch the Games through BBC Sport and discovery+.
Feeling inspired to skate? Explore “Inspire to Skate” sessions available at Planet Ice rinks across the UK. Use the British Ice Skating Rink Finder to locate a rink near you and embark on your skating journey.
