Skier Max Laughland, of Tenterden, in line for first World Cup starts as big winter awaits

Tenterden's local community is buzzing with excitement as 22-year-old skier Max Laughland gears up for the most significant winter of his career. As one of Britain’s leading speed skiers, Laughland is poised to make his debut in the World Cup circuit, competing in both downhill and super-G disciplines. His inclusion in the GB Snowsport Europa Cup squad and training alongside the Spanish national federation programme marks a pivotal moment in his athletic journey.

Having first taken to the slopes at the tender age of three, Laughland has dedicated much of his young life to the sport. Since he was 13, he has spent more than six months each year training in the Alps and across Europe, opting for a full-time skiing career over pursuing a university education. This commitment has paid off, as he recently celebrated a podium finish in a FIS super-G race and was crowned British under-21 champion in 2025. His achievements also include three selections for the FIS World Junior Championships, showcasing his talent on an international stage.

However, the road to success has not been without its challenges. After suffering a collarbone injury in January 2024, Laughland faced a setback that kept him out of competition for an entire season. Nevertheless, he demonstrated resilience and determination by returning to the slopes in 2025 and building on his past successes.

With no British speed programme in place this season, Laughland has taken the initiative to secure his training by aligning with the Spanish ski team, which offers a comprehensive 170-day training programme. This opportunity allows him to train alongside elite Spanish athletes, further honing his skills as he prepares for a competitive season that includes Europa Cup races across Europe. His sights are firmly set on the World Championships in Crans-Montana in February 2027, a key milestone in his career.

Despite the lack of direct funding from GB Snowsport, Laughland continues to pursue his passion with the support of his family and sponsors. He prepares his own skis, dedicating countless hours to ensure they are competition-ready—a testament to his work ethic and dedication.

Community members in Tenterden are encouraged to rally behind Laughland as he seeks sponsorship to support his racing season. His determination to succeed serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing what a skier from Kent can achieve on the world stage. For those interested in following his journey or potentially supporting him, further information is available through his social media channels and website.

As the winter season approaches, the Tenterden community looks forward to cheering on one of its own as Max Laughland embarks on this exciting chapter in his skiing career, embodying the spirit of perseverance and ambition.