Meylemans Claims Maiden Overall World Cup Crown
Altenberg, Germany – Belgium's Kim Meylemans has made history by securing her first career overall World Cup women's skeleton title. The 29-year-old clinched the prestigious crystal globe trophy on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the final race of the season held in Altenberg, Germany.
Meylemans, who finished third in the Altenberg race, accumulated a total of 1,443 points over the season to claim the top spot in the overall standings. This achievement marks her as the first Belgian athlete to win an overall World Cup title in women's skeleton.
Performance in the Final Race
In the decisive final race in Altenberg, Meylemans delivered a strong performance to secure her overall victory. She placed third, behind German competitors Jacqueline Pfeifer, who won the race, and Susanne Kreher, who finished second. Meylemans' third-place finish was her sixth podium finish in seven races during the 2025/2026 World Cup season, demonstrating consistent excellence throughout the campaign.
Following Meylemans in the overall World Cup standings were Jacqueline Pfeifer of Germany with 1,338 points and Tabitha Stoecker of Great Britain with 1,236 points, who finished second and third respectively.
A Season of Triumphs
Meylemans' path to the overall title was paved with several significant victories and strong showings. Earlier in the season, she secured two World Cup event wins in Sigulda, Latvia. She also triumphed in St. Moritz, Switzerland, in a race that additionally counted as the European Championship. This victory in St. Moritz earned her a second European title, further highlighting her dominance in the sport.
Background and Future Outlook
Born in Amberg, Germany, Kim Meylemans began her skeleton career in 2009 and transitioned to represent Belgium in the 2014-15 season. Her historic overall World Cup win positions her as a significant medal contender for Team Belgium at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina. This will be her third Olympic appearance, having previously competed in 2018 and 2022.
7 Comments
Fuerza
Her six podium finishes are truly impressive and speak to her skill. But the competition is always evolving, and maintaining that level of dominance will be her next big challenge.
Manolo Noriega
It's fantastic she won the overall title, showing incredible consistency. However, the Olympics are a single-race event, which brings a whole different kind of pressure and unpredictability.
Ongania
While Meylemans' achievement is historic for Belgium, it highlights the often-overlooked success in smaller winter sports. Hopefully, this brings more attention and resources to athletes in these disciplines.
Fuerza
Her consistency this season was absolutely phenomenal. A true champion.
Manolo Noriega
Another niche sport getting overhyped. Let's see at the Olympics.
KittyKat
Skeleton World Cup? Is that even a real sport people watch?
Loubianka
Hard work pays off. Inspiring to see such dedication lead to success.