The Winter Olympics kicked off with a stunning ceremony at Milan’s renowned San Siro Stadium on Friday. Iconic artists Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli headlined the event, captivating millions of viewers worldwide. Team GB, showcasing a roster of promising young talents, is anticipated to shine in Italy, with UK Sport forecasting a potential medal haul of up to eight.
Spanning northern Italy, the 25th edition of the winter games will feature celebrations and processions in Predazzo, Livigno, and Cortina d’Ampezzo. Team GB is primed for a record-breaking performance, aiming to surpass their previous best of five medals achieved at Sochi 2014 and Pyeongchang 2018. Ice dancing duo Lewis Gibson and Lilah Fear, likened to the legendary Torvill and Dean, are among the frontrunners to secure the nation’s first Olympic figure skating medal since 1994. Lilah Fear, 26, will proudly carry the flag alongside bobsleigh pilot Brad Hall during the opening ceremony.
Anticipation is high for Britain’s curling squad to build on their success from 2022, particularly after the women’s team clinched gold. Noteworthy athletes include world champion skeleton racers Matt Weston and Marcus Wyatt, who are poised to make their mark on the competition.
Among the top medal prospects are Mia Brookes, Kirsty Muir – the youngest British athlete at Beijing 2022 at just 17 – Zoe Atkin, and Charlotte Bankes. These athletes are vying for Team GB’s maiden Olympic gold or silver on the snowy slopes.
The prestigious event, running until Feb 22 with live coverage on the BBC, features nearly 3,000 athletes representing 90 nations competing for 116 medals at Milan-Cortina. Team GB boasts a contingent of 53 athletes, with qualification rounds already in progress. Wyatt is a strong contender to join Weston on the men’s skeleton podium, following his silver medal at the World Championships last year.
Exciting competitions await, with Weston teaming up with Tabby Stoecker in the mixed team event and Brad Hall’s sleds in the bobsleigh events. The curling team, led by Bruce Mouat and Jennifer Dodds, eye further success, aiming to defend the gold medal secured by Muirhead’s women’s team in Beijing.
In individual events, athletes to watch include Zoe Atkin, Charlotte Bankes, Mia Brookes, Kirsty Muir, and the figure skating pair Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson. Each competitor brings a unique skill set and a strong track record, setting the stage for thrilling performances throughout the Winter Olympics.