Ivo Palkans joined the BBSA as ice coach for the British Skeleton programme in the summer of 2026.

Palkans’ role has a specific focus on the newer pipeline of talent looking to challenge for Olympic places in 2030 and 2034, as the team look to unearth and develop athletes aiming to follow in Matt Weston and Tabby Stoecker’s footsteps.

The Latvian previously spent five years as the Head Coach of the Swiss team, having held the same role with the Canadians for four years through to the 2018 Olympics in South Korea.

He also worked closely with fellow BBSA ice coach Martins Dukurs during the latter’s time as a slider and was part of the Latvian set up as National Team Driving coach when Dukurs won Olympic silver in Vancouver in 2010.