Team GB’s Largest Skating Squad Since 1988

Great Britain is sending its strongest figure skating team in nearly four decades to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The British Olympic Association confirmed an eight-skater delegation today – the largest since Calgary 1988 – featuring a mix of proven medalists and exciting debutants ready to shine on the global stage.

Leading the charge are ice dance sensations Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson, fresh off an eighth national title and a historic World Championship bronze earlier this year – Britain’s first in ice dance in 40 years. The duo, who debuted at Beijing 2022, return as genuine podium threats with two fiercely patriotic programs designed to captivate audiences.

They’ll be joined in ice dance by Phebe Bekker and James Hernandez, marking the first time since 2014 that Britain fields two couples in the discipline at an Olympics.

In pairs, Anastasia Vaipan-Law and Luke Digby make their Olympic bow after a breakthrough season that included a top-five European finish – the best by a British pair in over 30 years. The Dundee-based team earned their quota with consistent excellence and can’t hide their excitement.

“Representing Great Britain at the Olympics is the culmination of a lifetime of dedication,” the pair said. “We’re beyond proud and grateful to everyone who helped us reach this moment.”

Kristen Spours will carry the flag in women’s singles, while Edward Appleby steps up for the men’s portion of the team event. Together, the squad will also compete in the team event, maximizing Britain’s presence across the ice.

Team GB Chef de Mission Eve Muirhead hailed the selection: “Eight skaters is a testament to the incredible progress in British ice skating. We have world-class leaders in Lilah and Lewis alongside six debutants who’ll benefit from their experience. The whole team will be behind them as they chase their dreams.”

British Ice Skating Performance Director Jon Eley added: “This is our largest contingent since 1988, reflecting the hard work and talent across the program. We’re thrilled to see them on the biggest stage.”

With less than two months until the Opening Ceremony, Team GB’s figure skaters are primed to make history – and bring some British flair to Italian ice.

Team GB Figure Skating Squad – Milano Cortina 2026 Ice Dance

• Lilah Fear & Lewis Gibson
• Phebe Bekker & James Hernandez

Pairs

• Anastasia Vaipan-Law & Luke Digby

Women’s Singles

• Kristen Spours

Men’s Singles (Team Event)

• Edward Appleby

With this powerhouse squad blending experience and fresh talent, Team GB is poised to make its mark on the Olympic ice like never before.

Source: article on iceskating.org.uk, published December 10, 2025.

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By Vitalina Andrushchenko, Staff Writer