Dutch Coach Incensed After Collision in Short Track Final
MILAN, Italy – Dutch short track coach Niels Kerstholt expressed outrage following a controversial incident in the 500-meter final at the Olympic Games on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The incident involved Canadian skater William Dandjinou and Dutch competitor Teun Boer, potentially impacting the Netherlands’ chances in the relay event.
The clash occurred when Dandjinou appeared to create contact with Boer, causing the Dutch skater to fall. Kerstholt described the action as “irresponsible” and likened Dandjinou’s movement to “a bowling ball,” stating, “This just isn’t something you do in a final.”
According to reports, the incident left Boer injured, casting doubt on his availability for Friday’s relay final. Kerstholt expressed concern, saying, “Hopefully we can get him patched up for the relay final on Friday.”
The controversy unfolded as Dandjinou’s teammate, Steven Dubois, went on to win the gold medal, followed by Melle van ‘t Wout and Jens van ‘t Wout of the Netherlands. Kerstholt believes the Netherlands could have achieved a more dominant result without the collision. “Without that action, I think Jens would have won gold. It could even have been gold, silver, and bronze,” he said.
Dandjinou defended his actions, stating he was focused on winning and offered an apology to the Dutch team. “I’m sorry to all the Dutch people,” Dandjinou told reporters, denying any intentional wrongdoing. “I always want to win. For me, it’s gold or nothing.”
Despite the controversy, Jens van ‘t Wout celebrated his brother Melle’s gold medal, a sentiment acknowledged by Kerstholt. The Dutch team will now focus on preparing for the relay, hoping to overcome the setback and contend for another medal.
Niels Kerstholt, 42, of Utrecht, Netherlands, has a decorated short track career, including participation in the 2006 and 2010 Olympic Games, a World Championship title in the relay in 2014, and two European championships.
