Matt Weston has etched his name into the history books as he secured Team GB’s first medal at this year’s Winter Olympics, clinching gold in the men’s skeleton event. The dual world champion dominated the competition from the outset, setting new track records during his first two runs at the Cortina Sliding Centre in Italy.
Continuing his extraordinary form, Weston delivered a combined time of 1 minute 52.09 seconds across his final two heats on Friday, finishing 0.3 seconds ahead of Axel Jungk. His third run, clocking an impressive 55.63 seconds, extended his lead to 0.39 seconds, giving him a strong advantage heading into the final heat.
Weston sealed his victory by increasing his winning margin to 0.88 seconds in the last run, with Jungk taking silver and fellow German Christopher Grotheer earning bronze.
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Speaking after his historic triumph, Weston shared the personal sacrifices behind his success. “It means everything. I have worked so hard for this,” he said. “Everyone back at home, my fiancé, my family, my friends – everyone who sacrificed for me to be here. I have missed funerals, birthdays, everything for this moment, and it feels amazing.”
He also expressed gratitude towards lottery players who indirectly supported his journey: “Even if you’re not part of my close circle, if you play the national lottery you are supporting me as well, so thank you so much. Hopefully, I did you proud!”
Weston’s victory not only ends Team GB’s medal drought but also marks a historic achievement as he becomes the first British man to win Olympic gold in skeleton.