Niall Treacy: Team GB Skater Prepares for Milano Cortina Olympics
Niall Treacy, a talented speed skater, is set to represent Great Britain at the Milano Cortina Olympics in 2026. This will be Treacy’s second appearance at the Winter Olympics, after competing in Beijing 2022. He finished 27th in the men’s 1,000m event there and is returning with heightened ambitions.
Journey to the Olympics
Niall’s path to becoming an elite skater began at a young age at the Solihull ice rink, where he trained twice a week. His early competitions included local races and the Star Class Series, which pits young skaters against top talent from Western and Eastern Europe.
In 2017, Treacy’s selection for the European Youth Olympic Festival marked a pivotal moment. His brothers, who are also elite skaters, inspired him to believe in the possibility of representing Team GB. “When I got selected, I thought this could be a route for me,” he reflected.
Support and Funding
Treacy’s journey has not been without its challenges. The establishment of the Speed Skate Performance Programme in 2019, supported by a £100,000 grant from Sport England, has been crucial for his development. Niall acknowledged the ongoing support from coaches and the wider skating community.
Recent Achievements
Since Beijing, Treacy has showcased significant improvement. At the European Short Track Championships in 2024, he earned a silver medal in the men’s 1,000m event and also secured a bronze in the World Tour. His fourth-place finish at the 2025 European Championships further highlights his aspirations for medal contention in 2026.
Financial Contributions to the Sport
Funding plays a vital role in competitive speed skating. Recently, UK Sport allocated £1.4 million to support British ice skating, benefiting various disciplines, including figure skating and the less prioritized long track speed skating.
International Training and Community
To enhance his skills, Niall trains with the Dutch national team, which is renowned in the speed skating arena. “They’ve got brand new bikes, and their facilities are incredible,” he noted. This collaboration is vital as training in a group is essential for competition preparation.
Community Support
- Family: Niall is supported by his three brothers, who have also competed at high levels.
- Coaching: Richard Shoebridge, Team GB’s Speed Skating coach, plays a crucial role in his development.
- Public Funding: Support from Sport England and UK Sport, backed by National Lottery funds, has been instrumental.
As Niall Treacy prepares for the Milano Cortina Olympics, he embodies perseverance and ambition. While he competes individually, he carries the support of many, including his brothers and the broader speed skating community.
