Matt Weston Aims for Team GB’s First Winter Olympics Gold
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Matt Weston is positioned to secure the first Winter Olympics gold for Team GB. The 29-year-old skeleton athlete is leading the men’s singles skeleton final with a 0.3-second edge after the first day of competition. His teammate, Marcus Wyatt, trails in seventh place.
Did Team GB Finally Secure a Medal?
The Milano Cortina games have seen Team GB close to the medal positions across various events. However, many eyes are now on Weston. The current skeleton world and European champion is expected to bring the UK’s long-awaited medal.
Who is Matt Weston?
Matt Weston hails from Tunbridge Wells, Kent. He initially pursued taekwondo, winning several medals in UK competitions and representing England internationally. He had notable successes at the 2012 European Cup, where he won both gold and silver, in addition to further medals at the 2014 International Taekwondo Federation World Cup.
Weston transitioned to skeleton after a back injury sidelined his taekwondo career at the age of 17. Before jumping into skeleton, he also played rugby and represented Kent as well as Sevenoaks RFC and the Saracens Academy College.
Transitioning to Skeleton
Weston’s entrance into skeleton occurred through the British Skeleton “Discover Your Gold” talent identification program, thanks to encouragement from his weightlifting coach, Chris Dear. In an interview, he expressed the thrill and overcoming of fear required in the sport, stating, “To get over that fear when you first start… it’s just sheet ice.”
From Debut to Olympian
Making his skeleton debut in 2019, Weston faced a rigorous training program with the Royal Marines to test his mental and physical endurance. He debuted in the Europa Cup in Winterberg, Germany, finishing 15th. Shortly after, he secured a silver medal in Igls, Austria, and a bronze in Altenberg, Germany.
By 2020, Weston joined the World Cup circuit, achieving a significant milestone in November 2021 by winning gold, marking Team GB’s first men’s World Cup win in skeleton for nearly 14 years. He debuted as an Olympian at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games.
Recent Achievements
With the guidance of six-time world champion Martins Dukurs, Weston flourished in 2023, winning the European title and the world championship just a week apart. His world championship victory was marked by an impressive lead of 1.49 seconds.
- March 2025: Secured second world champion title.
- January 2026: Won third consecutive overall World Cup title.
- Current Status: UK’s most decorated skeleton slider at the world championship level.
The upcoming Winter Olympics is set to be a pivotal moment for Weston and Team GB. Fans are hopeful that his exceptional skills will lead to the nation’s first winter gold medal.
