Olympic Champion Matt Weston Unexpectedly Joins Skeleton Track Team
Matt Weston, the newly crowned Olympic champion, has taken an unexpected turn by engaging with a skeleton track team. At just 29, Weston recently secured both individual and mixed team gold medals at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Following his triumph, he became instrumental in attracting over 7,000 applicants for bobsleigh and skeleton try-outs in the UK.
Unexpected Sign-Up from a 70-Year-Old
One particular applicant drew Weston’s attention: a 70-year-old interested in tackling the daredevil sport. Although Weston acknowledges that the septuagenarian may not qualify for the elite program aimed at the French Alps 2030, he considers such interest a positive sign for the sport. Weston expressed, “We’ve had some amazing success in skeleton, and I really feel like the nation rallied behind us in Italy.”
He added, “I want to get them down to trial and just have fun and try it.” The idea of a 70-year-old on the track is amusing to him, and he hopes there was a simple typo in the application.
Weston’s Rise to Fame
Matt Weston has quickly become a prominent figure in British sports. He made history by becoming the first British male Olympic skeleton champion. Alongside Lizzy Yarnold, he is now recognized as one of Britain’s most successful Winter Olympians. His recent fame includes a personalized rendition of “Happy Birthday” performed by mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins.
Health Challenges Ahead
While he enjoys the fame and opportunities from his Olympic success, Weston is also facing health issues. He mentioned needing shoulder and possible hip surgeries, which he postponed until after the Olympics. “My body’s hurting a lot at the moment still,” he stated, reflecting on the toll of the competition.
Future in the Skeleton Circuit
Despite some time off for recovery, Weston has dominated the skeleton circuit recently, claiming world, European, and World Cup titles within the past year. As he navigates his post-Olympic life, he remains committed to the sport. “I don’t really have a plan at the moment, I’m kind of just seeing what I fancy doing,” he noted regarding his training approach.
Community Engagement and Events
Weston continues to engage with fans and the sports community. He recently participated in Crufts 2026, a prominent dog show hosted by The Kennel Club, and is scheduled for a day out at Ascot. This engagement keeps him connected to both his sport and his supporters.
Matt Weston’s journey showcases both the exhilarating highs of Olympic glory and the personal challenges faced by elite athletes. As he recovers and prepares for the future, his commitment to inspiring new athletes remains unwavering.
