Dave Ryding to Have Last Olympics in 2026

Dave Ryding, a top British skier, will compete in his final Olympic Games at Milano Cortina 2026. He started skiing on a dry slope and achieved great success, including a World Cup win. He hopes for one more medal before he stops skiing after the 2025-26 season.
By Newsroom | Sports, Olympics |

A Career Culmination on the Slopes

Dave Ryding, Great Britain's most accomplished alpine skier, is preparing for his final Olympic appearance at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. This marks the conclusion of a distinguished career, during which he carved a unique path into the sport's elite ranks, achieving historic milestones for British skiing. His imminent retirement at the close of the 2025-26 season signals the end of an era for British winter sports, leaving a notable legacy.

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Unconventional Ascent to Global Acclaim

Ryding's journey into alpine skiing diverged significantly from the traditional trajectory of many international competitors. He began skiing at the age of six on a plastic dry slope in Pendle, Lancashire, a far cry from the snow-covered mountains where his peers honed their skills. His initial exposure to snow training did not occur until he was thirteen, and he only reached World Cup level in his twenties. This unconventional start has been highlighted as a key aspect of his career, illustrating a dedication and determination that propelled him to success despite not having the typical early foundation.

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  • Early Beginnings: First contact with skiing was on a dry slope at age six.

  • Delayed Snow Training: Significant snow training commenced later, around age thirteen.

  • Late World Cup Entry: Achieved World Cup status in his twenties, an uncommon timing in the sport.

Career Highlights and Records

Throughout his career, Ryding has amassed a series of achievements that have rewritten British alpine skiing history. His dedication is evidenced by seven World Cup podium finishes, including a landmark victory at Kitzbühel, Austria, in 2022. This win made him the first British skier to claim an Alpine Skiing World Cup gold. He has consistently performed at the highest level, securing multiple top-10 finishes in World Cups and World Championships.

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  • World Cup Victories: One notable win, with seven total podiums.

  • Historic Kitzbühel Win: First British male to win an Alpine Skiing World Cup event (2022).

  • World Championship Performance: Achieved Great Britain's best men's result since 1934 with a sixth-place finish at the 2025 Saalbach World Championships.

  • Olympic Representation: Competed in four previous Olympic Games, with Milano Cortina 2026 set to be his fifth.

The Drive for a Final Podium

Even as he approaches retirement, Ryding remains competitive and is focused on achieving further success. He has expressed a desire to achieve one more Olympic medal and potentially become the oldest man to stand on a World Cup slalom podium. This ambition underscores his enduring commitment to performing at his peak and pushing the boundaries of what is expected in his sport. His final season is geared towards maximizing his performance and aiming for that ultimate podium finish.

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"I've always said that I’d only carry on for as long as I think I can perform to my best level, and making this decision now frees me up to give one last push to try and go one step further over the next season."

Legacy Beyond Results

Beyond his personal achievements, Ryding is widely recognized for elevating the profile of alpine skiing in Great Britain. His success has inspired a new generation of skiers and demonstrated that elite performance is attainable regardless of the traditional pathways into the sport. He is often referred to by his nickname, ‘The Rocket’, a testament to his speed and impact on the slopes.

  • Trailblazer Status: Recognized for paving the way for British alpine skiers.

  • Inspiration: His career serves as a model for dedication and achievement.

  • Elevating the Sport: Credited with raising expectations for British athletes in skiing.

Expert and Team Perspectives

Colleagues and organizations have lauded Ryding's career and impact. He has been described as an "icon" and a "legend" whose dedication embodies the spirit of British sport. His status as Britain's greatest-ever alpine skier is widely acknowledged, with his journey serving as a profound example of perseverance and ambition.

  • GB Snowsport: Characterized him as a "model for anyone who wants to reach the top of their game."

  • Team GB: Highlighted his pride in "elevated the sport" and British achievements on the slopes.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

Dave Ryding's retirement after the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics signifies the end of a remarkable career that has profoundly impacted British alpine skiing. His unique path from dry slopes to World Cup victory is a compelling narrative of talent, hard work, and unwavering determination. As he prepares for his final competitive season, the focus remains on delivering strong performances and achieving his long-held ambitions. His legacy as a pioneer and one of Great Britain's most successful winter athletes is firmly established.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is Dave Ryding retiring?
Dave Ryding will retire after the 2025-26 ski season, with his last event being the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Q: How did Dave Ryding start skiing?
He started skiing at age six on a plastic dry slope in Lancashire, England, which is unusual for a top skier.
Q: What are Dave Ryding's biggest achievements?
He is the first British skier to win a World Cup race and has seven World Cup podium finishes. He also achieved Great Britain's best World Championship result in many years.
Q: What does Dave Ryding hope to do before retiring?
He wants to win another Olympic medal and possibly become the oldest skier to reach the World Cup podium.