The 25th Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina are in full swing, featuring nearly 3,000 athletes from 90 countries competing for 116 medals. Team GB has sent 53 athletes, many of whom are strong contenders for medals across a range of sports. Here’s your guide to Friday’s highlights and key athletes to watch.
Snowboard: Women’s Cross Excitement
Former world champion Charlotte Bankes leads Team GB in the women’s snowboard cross. Born in Hemel Hempstead and raised in the French Alps, Bankes has competed in three Olympics but has yet to reach a final. After overcoming injury and winning recently on the World Cup circuit, she has a solid chance in Livigno. The event runs from 09:00 to 14:05.
Figure Skating: Men’s Free Skate
All eyes will be on American star Ilia Malinin during the men’s free skate (18:00-22:10). The two-time world champion is the only skater to land the quad Axel in competition. His routine in December’s Grand Prix Trophy featured seven quadruple jumps and promises to be spectacular. Malinin remains one of the hottest favourites of these Games.
Skeleton: Britain’s Medal Hope
Friday could be a historic day for British skeleton athletes. Matt Weston, the reigning world champion, is aiming to become Great Britain’s first male Olympic skeleton champion. He holds a 0.30-second lead over his closest competitor heading into the final two runs at 18:30 and 20:05. Marcus Wyatt is also in contention.
The women’s skeleton heats also begin today (15:00), with Team GB’s Tabby Stoecker, Amelia Coltman, and Freya Tarbit competing for medals. Historically, this event has been very successful for Britain.
Snowboard: Men’s Halfpipe Thrills
Even without Shaun White, the men’s halfpipe final promises jaw-dropping action (18:30-20:05). Scotty James of Australia, bronze medallist in 2018 and silver in 2022, aims to claim gold this year. Riders will showcase their best tricks, providing a thrilling spectacle for fans.
Additional Highlights
- Women’s Ice Hockey enters the knockout phase with two quarter-finals.
- Men’s Hockey group matches include Finland vs Sweden at 11:10. Finland are defending champions.
- Men’s Curling: GB vs Italy at 09:05
- Women’s Curling: GB vs South Korea at 13:05
Looking Ahead: Saturday’s Events
Medal events on 14 February include women’s dual moguls, men’s giant slalom, women’s speed skating team pursuit, and the conclusion of the women’s skeleton. Swiss skier Marco Odermatt aims for consecutive Olympic gold in giant slalom, a feat previously only achieved by Alberto Tomba.
In women’s dual moguls, the USA’s Jaelin Kauf and teammate Tess Johnson will compete for the first Olympic gold in this event. Team GB will watch closely as their skeleton athletes aim for podium finishes.
