Matt Weston: Skeleton Gold Medalist Turns Climate Advocate 2026

Matt Weston, Britain's most successful male Winter Olympian, has traded his skeleton sled for a climate megaphone. After winning gold in Milano Cortina, the 29-year-old is now an advocate for Protect our Winters (POW), using his platform to raise awareness about the changing winter landscape.

Weston, who broke the track record at the Cortina Sliding Centre four times, says the decision to speak out came after seeing the effects of climate change firsthand. “The snowpack is less reliable, glaciers are retreating, and winter sports are at risk,” he explains. “I felt I had to do something.”

From Skeleton Track to Climate Advocacy

Protect our Winters, founded by professional snowboarder Jeremy Jones in 2007, mobilises the outdoor community to fight climate change. Weston joined the organisation in early July after a whirlwind post-Olympic period that included a day at the royal box at Wimbledon, a visit to Silverstone, and his wedding.

“Skeleton is very small,” Weston says. “You don’t get media attention normally. So coming away from the Olympics and getting recognised on the tube has been amazing.” But that attention comes with responsibility. Weston now uses his voice to highlight the urgent need for action, calling himself a “dirtbag making a difference,” as the POW website puts it.

Why Winter Athletes Are Speaking Up

Winter sports depend on cold temperatures and reliable snow. As the planet warms, ski seasons shorten, glaciers melt, and events like the Winter Olympics face uncertain futures. A 2022 study found that if global emissions continue unchecked, nearly half of all former Winter Olympic host cities would be unable to host the Games by 2080.

Weston’s activism is part of a growing trend among athletes who see the impacts of climate change on their sports. He joins other POW ambassadors like skier Lindsey Vonn and snowboarder Chloe Kim in calling for systemic change.

Key Takeaways from Weston's Story

• Professional athletes have a powerful platform to drive climate action.
• Protect our Winters offers a model for mobilising outdoor communities.
• Winter sports are directly threatened by rising global temperatures.
• Individual action combined with collective advocacy can make a difference.
• Matt Weston proves that even “dirtbags” can be changemakers.

What You Can Do

Weston encourages everyone to get involved—whether by reducing personal carbon footprints, supporting sustainable brands, or joining groups like Protect our Winters. “We all have a role to play,” he says. “Even small changes add up.”

For the skeleton champion, the next race is not on ice but for a livable planet. “The medals are great, but this is bigger than sport,” Weston reflects. “We’re dirtbags making a difference, and that’s something to be proud of.”

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