Matt Weston Leads Skeleton Race, Close to Olympic Gold

Matt Weston is doing very well in the Olympic skeleton competition. He has a good lead after the first runs and is expected to win gold for Great Britain. His teammate is also doing well.
By Newsroom | Winter Sports, Olympics |

High Stakes as Weston Aims for Team GB's First Skeleton Gold

Matt Weston, a leading figure in men's skeleton, has established a commanding lead in the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics after the initial runs of the competition. Hailed as Team GB's prime medal hopeful, Weston's performance places him in a strong position to secure gold, a victory that would mark a significant achievement for Great Britain in the sport. The stakes are amplified by the recent exclusion of an innovative helmet design, a decision that initially cast a shadow over the team's prospects, yet Weston and his teammate Marcus Wyatt have demonstrated remarkable resilience and dominance throughout the season. Their consistent success, including winning all World Cup races between them, underscores Team GB's elevated standing in the skeleton world.

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Weston's Path to Olympic Dominance

Matt Weston's journey to this point is characterized by a blend of remarkable talent and a resilient mindset, forged through past challenges. Having faced significant setbacks that once led him to contemplate quitting the sport, Weston has since made history. He is the first male skeleton athlete to achieve three consecutive World Cup titles and holds the distinction of being a two-time world champion. This season, he has also outshone all competitors in World Cup races, cementing his status as the favorite for Olympic gold. His teammate, Marcus Wyatt, is also a formidable contender, consistently placing near Weston, creating a strong British presence at the forefront of the sport.

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  • Weston's ascent includes becoming the first male slider to win three consecutive World Cup titles.

  • He is a two-time world champion, having secured his second title in Lake Placid.

  • Weston has also won multiple European crowns and three Crystal Globes (overall World Cup titles).

Evidence of Weston's Leading Position

Current results confirm Weston's prime placement in the men's skeleton event:

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  • After two runs, Weston holds a lead of 0.30 seconds over the closest competitors on the new Cortina sliding track.

  • He was the only slider to complete the second run in under 56 seconds, with a time of 55.88 seconds, following his first-run time of 56.21 seconds.

  • His combined time after two runs is 1:52.09, significantly ahead of Axel Jungk (GER) at 1:52.39 and Christopher Grotheer (GER) at 1:52.55.

  • Weston's performance has led to him being labeled "the man to beat."

A notable challenge faced by the British team was the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation's (IBSF) decision to ban Team GB's newly designed aerodynamic helmets just days before the Games commenced. Despite this setback, which was described as a "big blow" by some, the athletes have continued to perform at an exceptionally high level. Weston himself has expressed that Team GB remains at the "pinnacle" of the sport, emphasizing that their success is not solely dependent on equipment. He noted that he achieved his historical wins, including two world titles, while using his previous helmet. The British Bobsleigh and Skeleton Association (BBSA) acknowledged the ruling but maintained the team's strong position.

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Team Dynamics: Weston and Wyatt's Partnership

The partnership between Matt Weston and Marcus Wyatt has been a pivotal element in Team GB's recent success. They have a strong rapport and a competitive yet supportive dynamic that has propelled both athletes. Their combined efforts have resulted in them winning all seven World Cup races this past season, a feat that underscores Great Britain's dominance in the sport. This camaraderie is viewed as a critical factor for their collective performance at the Olympics.

Historical Context and Future Aspirations

This Olympics marks a significant moment for British skeleton. Matt Weston is considered the primary favorite for gold, and his success would not only be a personal triumph but also a considerable boost for the sport's profile in the UK. With Marcus Wyatt also in contention, the potential for multiple British medals is high. This mirrors the high expectations placed on the team, supported by significant investment from UK Sport, which Weston believes will be vindicated by Olympic success.

Conclusion: A Race for Gold

Matt Weston has positioned himself at the forefront of the men's skeleton competition at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. His consistent performance, evidenced by his lead after the initial runs and his strong track record, makes him the clear favorite for the gold medal. Despite challenges, such as the recent helmet ban, the resilience and talent of Weston and his teammate Marcus Wyatt have ensured Team GB's continued prominence. The remaining runs will determine the final standings, but Weston's current advantage suggests he is poised to secure a historic victory for Great Britain.

Sources Used

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is leading the men's skeleton competition at the Olympics?
Matt Weston from Great Britain is leading the men's skeleton competition after the first two runs. He has a good lead over other racers.
Q: Is Matt Weston likely to win a gold medal?
Yes, he is considered the favorite to win the gold medal. He has a strong lead and a history of winning major races.
Q: What challenges has the British team faced?
The British team had their new helmet design banned just before the games started. However, the athletes have still performed very well.
Q: How is Matt Weston's teammate doing?
His teammate, Marcus Wyatt, is also a strong competitor and is doing well in the competition. The two British sliders are performing at the top level.