Milano: It was a perfect day for Dutch speed skating at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 as Jutta Leerdam and Femke Kok delivered a historic one-two finish in the women’s 1000m Speed Skating, winning gold and silver in Olympic record-breaking times amid a sea of orange at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium.
Roared on by thousands of Dutch fans in the stands, including members of the Dutch royal family and Leerdam’s fiancé, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, and millions watching back home, Kok first raised the bar by clocking 1:12.59 to set a new Olympic record. Moments later, Leerdam surpassed it with a stunning 1:12.31, sealing gold and rewriting Olympic history once again.
Japan’s Takagi Miho claimed the bronze medal in the women’s 1000m with a time of 1:13.95.
The result brought relief and celebration for the Netherlands after two medal-less days for their speed skating contingent, with the duo producing performances that pushed both athletes to the absolute limit.
Emotions ran high in the stadium as tears flowed, flags waved and the crowd rose in standing ovation. Members of the Dutch royal family were among those applauding, witnessing a moment that elevated Leerdam and Kok to speed skating royalty.
Speaking to Olympics.com, Leerdam described the moment she realised the magnitude of her achievement.
“I saw Jake sobbing and I saw my parents so happy. They’ve also felt the buildup of this pressure. It’s so surreal that I skated a 1:12.3, an Olympic record. It is a perfect day,” she said.
Reacting to the presence of the royal family, Leerdam added, “It feels surreal to do this with my family around, with my fiancé, with the king and the queen and everyone. I’m very grateful.”
The unforgettable race not only delivered medals but also showcased the very best of women’s speed skating on the Olympic stage.
Source: Milano Cortina 2026
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