As part of the deal, which was launched to coincide with the World Cup squad's move from North America to Europe for the second half of the 2013-2014 Olympic season, the company will provide transport for the athletes as they travel around the continent during the build up to Sochi 2014.

The athletes have already won six medals - three gold, one silver and two bronze - in the opening two weeks of the season, and British Skeleton commercial director David Henwood claimed Talbot's support is vital as the team look to qualify for next year's Olympics.

"This is a crucial season for the squad as we are seeking to qualify a maximum six GB sliders for the Sochi Winter Games next February - three men, three women," he said.

"Whether we can do that or not will be dependent on FIBT (International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation) ranking points gained on the World Cup circuit.

"We need every support we can get and being able to move in comfort from race to race is actually a critical performance advantage for our athletes.

"We are so grateful to Talbot for agreeing to support our vehicle fleet and join us on the journey to Sochi."

Amy Williams won British Skeleton's last Olympic medal when she secured gold at Vancouver 2010 ©Getty Images


Talbot now joins the likes of Lloyd and Partners, Ignite, Adidas, BioCare, McLaren and BAE Systems as British Skeleton sponsors.

Talbot chief executive Rupert Atkin spoke of his delight to be partnering with Team GB's most successful Winter Olympic sport of recent history, in which Britain won consecutive bronze, silver and gold medals from the 2002 to 2010 Olympics thanks to Alex Coomber, Shelley Rudman and Amy Williams respectively.

"British Skeleton is such an incredible team with an outstanding record of success," he said.

"We were enthused by its story of achievement against the odds, and are delighted to be associated with its elite performance system in this crucial Olympic season.

"We hope our support helps the athletes in their quest for Olympic medals."

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