Nicknamed "The Snowbok", Smith competes in cross-country skiing at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium in Val di Fiemme, Italy, with his most recent race on Friday, 13 February. The discipline is widely regarded as one of the toughest tests at the Winter Games, requiring athletes to sustain extreme cardiovascular output across long distances, altitude and unforgiving terrain, says the brand.

Smith's preparation for competition is underpinned by a partnership with Corona Cero, built around a "Relaxation Clause" — a contractual commitment that aims to place intentional rest, mental clarity and recovery alongside elite performance. Rooted in the brand's "Time Cero" philosophy, the approach aimes to challenge the traditional "always-on" mentality often associated with high-performance sport, adds the brand.

Smith is part of a select global group of elite Winter Olympians partnering with Corona Cero under the same Relaxation Clause. The international roster includes Olympic champions and medalists such as Mark McMorris (Canada), Marie-Philip Poulin (Canada), Cassie Sharpe (Canada), Arianna Fontana (Italy), Suzanne Schulting (Netherlands), Ayumu Hirano (Japan), Lucas Pinheiro (Brazil) and Katie Ormerod (UK) — aimed at reinforcing that the Time Cero philosophy is shared across disciplines and nations, says the brand.

"When I started, I had no idea what I was getting into — I just knew I wanted to chase the wild dream of representing South Africa at the Winter Olympics," says Smith. "Coming from a country without much snow sports, many thought it was impossible, but that only motivated me more."

"The journey has been full of challenges and unforgettable moments, and I've learned it's not just about reaching the Olympics, it's about inspiring others to dream big. Partnering with Corona feels natural because they celebrate enjoying the process, embracing the unexpected and living boldly — exactly how I've approached every step of this ride," adds Smith.

Smith's participation comes during a landmark moment for South African winter sport. Milano Cortina 2026 marks the largest Winter Olympic team South Africa has ever sent, with five athletes competing across disciplines. Alongside Smith, Team South Africa includes Nicole Burger (Skeleton), Malica Malherbe (Freestyle Skiing), Lara Markthaler (Slalom and Giant Slalom) and Thomas Weir (Slalom and Giant Slalom), says the brand.

"Matt's journey reflects a more modern understanding of performance," says Melanie Nicholson, Head of Brand: Corona South Africa. "It's about clarity, sustainability and knowing when to pause as much as when to push forward. That balance is what Corona Cero stands for, and why this partnership feels so authentic."

Matt Smith has prepared to take on cross-country skiing at the Val di Fiemme venue in Tesero on Friday, 13 February, concludes the brand.

For more information, visit www.coronaafrica.com. You can also follow Corona on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor