Team GB's Matt Weston has made a stunning start to his Olympic skeleton campaign at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, breaking the track record in the first heat. Weston, who is the reigning world champion and overall World Cup winner, clocked an impressive time of 56.21 seconds, setting a new benchmark for the course.
Weston's Record-Breaking Performance
Despite a minor early error in his run, Weston managed to push through and secure the fastest time, showcasing his resilience and skill on the ice. His performance has positioned him as a strong medal contender in the skeleton event, adding to Team GB's hopes for success at the Games.
Competition Standings
Germany's Axel Jungk finished a close second, just six-hundredths of a second behind Weston with a time of 56.27 seconds, highlighting the intense competition at the top. Italy's Amedeo Bagnis took third place, further emphasizing the high level of talent in this year's skeleton field.
Meanwhile, Weston's teammate, Marcus Wyatt, finished seventh in the heat with a time of 56.52 seconds, which was 0.31 seconds slower than Weston's record-setting run. Wyatt's performance, while solid, leaves room for improvement as the competition progresses.
Controversy in the Skeleton Event
The skeleton competition has been overshadowed by controversy, with Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych disqualified by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Heraskevych was penalized for refusing to remove a helmet that honored Ukrainian athletes killed during the ongoing Russian war, a move that has sparked debate about political expression in sports.
This incident adds a layer of complexity to the event, drawing attention away from the athletic achievements and towards broader geopolitical issues. Despite this, the focus remains on the thrilling performances on the track, with Weston leading the way for Team GB.
Looking Ahead
As the Winter Olympics continue, all eyes will be on Matt Weston as he aims to build on his strong start and secure a medal for Team GB. With Norway currently leading the overall medal count and men's hockey odds generating buzz, the skeleton event promises to be a highlight of the Games, driven by record-breaking feats and competitive spirit.
