Jutta Leerdam from the Netherlands made history at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games by winning the gold medal in the women’s 1000m speed skating event, setting a new Olympic record of 1:12.31. Her performance not only gave her the title, but also confirmed her consolidation as one of the great figures of world winter sports.
Leerdam starred in a dominant race from start to finish. In a competition marked by extraordinary times, her compatriot Femke Kok had momentarily taken the lead with 1:12.59, a mark that surpassed Miho Takagi’s previous Olympic record (1:13.19 in Beijing 2022). However, Jutta Leerdam closed with a superior pace and smashed that benchmark, securing gold for the Netherlands. Takagi, the defending champion, completed the podium with the bronze medal after clocking 1:13.95, falling behind the powerful Dutch duo.
One more step in its Olympic evolution
In Beijing 2022, Jutta Leerdam made her Olympic Games debut and won the silver medal in the 1000m with 1:13.83, second only to Takagi.
She also competed in the 500 meters, where she finished fifth.
Since then, his progression has been constant.
She closed the 2024-25 season ranked fourth in the ISU rankings in the 1000 meters.
Consolidating herself among the best in the international circuit before her consecration in Italy.
His gold medal at Milano Cortina 2026 represents not only a sporting revenge, but also the confirmation of his competitive maturity.
Netherlands dominates the ice
The all-Dutch podium reflects the historical dominance of the Netherlands in speed skating.
In addition to Jutta Leerdam, Suzanne Schulting, a multiple Olympic short track medalist, finished eighth with 1:15.46.
Schulting has faced a recovery process following injuries.
Including an ankle fracture that affected his 2024-25 season, and he used the long track as part of his competitive transition.
Her performance not only earned her the title
QuéOnnda.com
Leerdam leaves a historic mark on Milano Cortina 2026
For the U.S. Hispanic audience, speed skating often gains prominence during the Olympic Games.
The competitions are broadcast on national networks and digital platforms, making it possible to follow historic performances such as that of Jutta Leerdam.
In addition, the Olympic record reinforces the attractiveness of the event and anticipates a new generation of rivalries for future international competitions.
Milano Cortina 2026 continues to leave memorable moments, and Jutta Leerdam’s performance is already emerging as one of the iconic images of these Games.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
