Summary
Great Britain is 25 years behind other countries in short track speed skating due to outdated facilities and reduced funding. Niall Treacy was the only British athlete to compete in the three short track events at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, where Britain previously sent a well-funded team. British Ice Skating is working on rebuilding the sport amid financial challenges.
Key Facts
- Great Britain lacks modern facilities for short track speed skating, which affects athlete performance.
- Niall Treacy was the only British competitor in short track events at Milan-Cortina 2026.
- In 2018, five athletes from Great Britain competed with medal hopes in the Winter Olympics.
- Short track has received reduced funding compared to £4.8 million in 2018.
- Current UK Sport funding for short track, figure, and long track skating is under £2 million.
- Team GB has no international-standard rink with necessary padding for safety.
- Ice rink operational costs have increased, affecting maintenance and facility use.
- UK Sport considers short track a development sport, aiming for a better team by 2030.
