Dutch Speed Skaters Set for Thrilling 500m Final at Milano Cortina 2026
The women’s 500m speed skating event at the Winter Olympics Milano Cortina 2026 promises a captivating showdown between Dutch teammates Femke Kok and Jutta Leerdam, as they prepare to battle for gold on Saturday, February 14, 2026. This event follows a compelling 1000m race where Leerdam edged out Kok for the top spot.
Kok, a three-time world champion and world-record holder in the 500m, is entering her favored event with renewed determination after securing a silver medal in the 1000m. “I’m extremely motivated for the 500m now,” Kok stated. “That was one of my best 1000s, so it gives me a lot of confidence for the 500m. It gives me a lot energy. I’m going to travel and train really solid and try to focus more on my speeds.”
The rivalry between Kok and Leerdam has been a highlight of the competition, with Leerdam previously defeating Kok in the 1000m. Kok initially set an Olympic record at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium with a time of 1:12:59, only to see Leerdam surpass her mark with a winning time of 1:12.31.
The Dutch duo will continue their head-to-head competition, mirroring their clash at the 2025 World Single Distances Speed Skating Championships, where Kok emerged victorious.
Anna Boersma will also be in action for TeamNL, skating earlier in the event and aiming to put pressure on her teammates with a strong performance. The competition is set to be a thrilling display of speed and skill, with the potential for a fresh Olympic record.
For the Netherlands, a gold medal in the 500m would be a historic achievement, as the nation has yet to win this event in the women’s category. The stakes are high as the skaters prepare to compete for Olympic glory.
