In Lake Placid, New York, Matt Weston has once again asserted his dominance in the world of men’s skeleton racing. The 28-year-old competitor from Britain clinched the world championship title, reaffirming his status as the top contender since his disappointing 15th place finish at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. This remarkable victory adds to his growing legacy, marked by a commanding performance that may forecast a gold medal triumph in the upcoming Olympic season.
On Friday, Weston completed his four-run sequence on the Mount Van Hoevenberg track with a total time of 3 minutes, 35.48 seconds. This venue is anticipated to be the setting for the Milan-Cortina Olympics the following year. His victory margin of 1.90 seconds is a notable feat, ranking as the second-largest margin in a men’s skeleton world championships since the sport’s reinstatement in the Olympic program nearly 25 years ago.
“It feels incredible, to be honest,” commented Weston. “Having two titles to my name is truly incredible. Both victories being such comprehensive wins was beyond my expectations.”
The most significant win margin prior to Weston’s was by Latvia’s Martins Dukurs, a 2.08-second advantage during the 2012 championship in Lake Placid. Dukurs, now a coach for the British team, holds the record for the largest win. Weston’s previous victory in St. Moritz, Switzerland, two years ago had a similarly large margin of 1.79 seconds, showcasing his mastery of the sport. Anticipations are high for Weston to be a front-runner for the gold in 2026, with expectations set on the Italian Alps or Adirondack Mountains.
Reflecting on his journey, Weston shared, “The vision has been in motion since we left Beijing. Milan has always been the target, and our victories are steps towards achieving that goal. I’m eager for the big event and excited to see our team’s potential.”
The British team celebrated their prowess as Marcus Wyatt secured the silver medal, completing his runs in 3:37.38. This accomplishment marked only the second occasion in the past 26 men’s skeleton world championship events where athletes from a single nation secured both top positions. Germany’s sweep in the 2020 world title was the previous instance.
A jubilant Wyatt remarked, “Being almost speechless sums it up. This result is unbelievable. We always knew we could emerge victorious.”
Germany added to their medal tally with Axel Jungk claiming bronze in 3:37.41. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Vladyslav Heraskevych narrowly missed a podium finish by 0.08 seconds, yet achieved the best placement in his nation’s skeleton history.
“This is the pinnacle of my career,” Heraskevych declared, draped in a flag signed by soldiers from the Invictus Games. “So close to a medal. This result gives us hope for the Olympic season.”
China’s Zheng Yin placed fifth, while Austin Florian was the highest-placed American, securing sixth place, just ahead of 2024 world champion Christopher Grotheer of Germany.
Weston’s victory adds him to an elite group of men who have won the world title multiple times. This exclusive club includes Dukurs, a seven-time champion, Grotheer, and Gregor Stahli of Switzerland, who have each triumphed three times, as well as Canada’s Ryan Davenport and Jeff Pain, both two-time winners. Moreover, Weston captured the overall World Cup title this season, marking his second successive triumph.
