Freya Tarbit Makes Olympic Debut at Milano Cortina 2026
London, 13 February 2026 – British skeleton star Freya Tarbit has officially commenced her maiden Olympic campaign today in Cortina d’Ampezzo. The 25-year-old Derbyshire-born athlete, who transitioned from a successful career in long jump to the ice, is competing alongside teammates Tabitha Stoecker and Amelia Coltman. Tarbit enters the Games following a period of rapid ascent in the sport, having secured her first World Cup gold medal in PyeongChang during the previous season.
Olympic Performance and Training Form
In the opening heats of the women’s skeleton individual competition held today, Tarbit has demonstrated the form that saw her ranked eighth in the world at the conclusion of the 2024/25 season. During recent training runs, Tarbit clocked a time of 57.87 seconds, placing her among the top contenders behind Germany’s Jacka Pfeifer. Despite the immense pressure of her first Olympic Games, Tarbit remains a focal point for Team GB’s medal hopes, maintaining the nation’s historic consistency in the discipline.
From Athletics Track to Skeleton Ice
Tarbit’s journey to the Winter Olympics is noted for its remarkable resilience. Originally a long jumper who won multiple county titles, she switched to skeleton through the British Bobsleigh and Skeleton Association (BBSA) talent identification programmes. Her career was nearly derailed by a serious hamstring injury two years ago, but she achieved a stunning recovery, returning to win World Cup gold just 137 days after undergoing surgery. This tenacity has made her a key figure in the “girl gang” of British sliders currently competing in Italy.
Key Facts: Freya Tarbit
The following table outlines the career milestones and profile of the British skeleton racer as of the 2026 Winter Games.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Freya Tarbit |
| Date of Birth | 24 August 2000 |
| Place of Birth | Derbyshire, England |
| Sport | Skeleton |
| Olympic Debut | Milano Cortina 2026 |
| Major Honours | World Cup Gold (PyeongChang), Junior World Championship Bronze (2023) |
| Previous Sport | Athletics (Long Jump) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Freya Tarbit’s ranking before the 2026 Olympics?
Freya Tarbit ended the 2024/25 World Cup season ranked eighth in the world. She also led the World Cup standings earlier in the 2024/25 season following her first victory in November 2024.
How did Freya Tarbit get into skeleton racing?
Tarbit transitioned from athletics, where she competed in long jump and the 100m sprint. Her explosive speed from the track was identified as a primary asset for the skeleton “push” start, leading her to join the British skeleton programme.
Who are Freya Tarbit’s teammates at Milano Cortina 2026?
She is competing in the women’s individual event alongside fellow British sliders Tabitha Stoecker and Amelia Coltman. The trio has been highlighted by British media for their close friendship and collective potential for medals.