Celebrating Team GB's Trailblazing LGBTQ+ Athletes at the Winter Olympics

The 2026 Olympic Winter Games are swiftly approaching, and excitement is building as we prepare to support the incredible LGBTQ+ athletes of Team GB.

This year's Winter Games, taking place from February 6 to February 22, will be hosted in the stunning venues of Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. As athletes from around the world gather in Northern Italy, the spotlight shines brightly on those who represent not only their country but also the LGBTQ+ community with pride and distinction.

In 2022, the number of openly LGBTQ+ athletes competing in the Winter Olympics had doubled compared to the 2018 games in South Korea. As we look to 2026, while we await the complete roster of LGBTQ+ competitors, there's no doubt that Team GB is home to some extraordinary athletes who are pioneers in their sports. Let's meet some of these inspiring figures:

Makayla Gerken Schofield

Makayla Gerken Schofield is a standout British freestyle skier, known for being an out and proud pansexual athlete. As the only openly LGBTQ+ woman on Team GB for the 2026 Winter Olympics, her presence is both groundbreaking and empowering.

Gerken Schofield has utilized her platform and visibility in collaboration with GB Snowsport to promote LGBTQ+ History Month in 2021, advocating for greater representation and support within snowsports.

"Many people call me bisexual but I consider myself as pansexual," she has expressed, emphasizing the importance of community and visibility. Her pronouns are she/her and they/them, showcasing her commitment to inclusivity.

Since her Olympic debut in 2022, where she secured the best-ever Olympic Moguls result for Britain, Gerken Schofield has continued to excel, earning a place on the World Cup podium. As an ambassador for Milano Pride House, her message is clear: Sports should be inclusive spaces where diversity is celebrated.

Lewis Gibson

Scottish figure skater Lewis Gibson has carved a name for himself as a decorated athlete alongside his ice dance partner, Lilah Fear. Together, they have achieved significant accolades, including the 2025 world bronze medal and multiple European and Grand Prix medals.

Gibson, who is openly gay, first shared his story publicly in 2022, marking his journey with a profound Valentine's Day post with his husband, Joshua Walsh. "I can't live never sharing who I am and sharing who I love," he said, highlighting the importance of authenticity.

Advocating for same-sex partnerships in figure skating, Gibson believes that the sport's diversity allows for greater inclusivity, paving the way for same-sex couples to compete alongside traditional pairings.

Gus Kenworthy

Returning to the Olympic stage for his fourth appearance, Gus Kenworthy is a legendary skier who originally competed for Team USA before representing Team GB. After retiring post-2022, Kenworthy felt the pull of the slopes once more, deciding to make a comeback.

Known for his prowess in slopestyle, halfpipe, and big air, Kenworthy has also made a name for himself off the snow, engaging in creative ventures and championing LGBTQ+ causes. His journey from Sochi silver medalist to LGBTQ+ advocate is a testament to the power of visibility in sports.

Bruce Mouat

Bruce Mouat, a Scottish curler, is gearing up for his second Olympic Games, bringing with him a track record of success, including world championships and a silver medal from Beijing 2022.

Openly gay, Mouat's story of coming out to a sports psychologist early in his career is a moving testament to the importance of self-acceptance and honesty in sports. He attributes his sporting success to the open communication and strong team dynamics that come from being true to oneself.

As these athletes prepare to compete, they carry with them not only the hopes of their nation but also the dreams of countless individuals who see themselves represented on the world stage. Their stories inspire and remind us all of the progress being made toward a more inclusive and diverse sports environment.