Trust at 100km/h: how Bluetooth bond helps skier Neil Simpson see his way to glory

March 11, 2026

TL;DR

Neil Simpson and guide Robert Poth won Great Britain's first medal at the Winter Paralympics, a silver in the slalom combine.
Simpson, who has nystagmus, has been skiing since childhood and previously won gold with his brother Andrew as his guide.
Poth acts as Simpson's eyes, relaying detailed course information via a Bluetooth headset.
The pair have developed a strong communication bond and understanding over the past three years.
Despite earlier fourth-place finishes in downhill and super-G, Simpson and Poth found their form in the slalom combine.
They are now targeting further success in the remaining slalom and giant slalom events.
The competition is fierce, with strong performances from local hero Giacomo Bertagnolli and Austria's Johannes Aigner.
Simpson emphasizes the importance of adapting and growing their communication language and operational methods.
Poth expressed relief upon winning silver, feeling an obligation to his highly skilled partner.
ParalympicsGB had low-key medal ambitions for these Games, focusing on personal bests amid growing competition.

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