Today Wrapped – January 1st 2026

Summary of January 1st 2026

Today featured major developments in Dutch speed skating: decisive Olympic team selections sparked debate, marquee marathon championships concluded, and athletes prepared for the upcoming Winter Olympics.

Olympic Team Selections and Controversies

Kjeld Nuis Selected for Olympic 1500m; Tim Prins Excluded

The Dutch Olympic speed skating team was finalized with Kjeld Nuis securing a spot for the 1500 meters, while rising star Tim Prins was notably left out. The Dutch skating federation (KNSB) explained it as a strategic move prioritizing medal chances in the team pursuit event.

Team Dispute: Marcel Bosker Selected Over Tim Prins

Marcel Bosker was chosen for the Olympic Games over Tim Prins, with KNSB citing Bosker’s stronger medal potential. This decision has drawn criticism from notable commentators like Erben Wennemars and sparked outcry from Prins himself, who expressed feelings of being “broken, furious, and angry” about the exclusion.

Marcel Bosker’s selection details – nos.nl

Erben Wennemars questions decision – nos.nl

Tim Prins speaks out – ad.nl

KNSB and Athlete Reactions

Coach Johan de Wit reflected on the Olympic Qualifiers and teams, revealing his views on unexpected selections and missing qualifiers like Joy Beune.

Coach Johan de Wit reflects – telegraaf.nl

Joy Beune publicly defended Kjeld Nuis amid online backlash related to the Olympic 1500m selection.

Joy Beune defends Kjeld Nuis – nu.nl

The KNSB also issued an official statement defending the controversial exclusion of Tim Prins, emphasizing team strategy and medal prospects.

KNSB defends decision – nu.nl

Team Preparations Ahead of Milan Winter Olympics

Marcel Bosker shared his plans and mindset gearing up for the team pursuit and individual events at the Olympics, aiming to bring home medals for the Netherlands.

Bosker prepares for Olympics – schaatsen.nl

Stijn van de Bunt, fresh from successes at Thialf, is also preparing confidently for his Olympic debut, contributing both individually and in team contests.

Stijn van de Bunt ready for Olympics – ad.nl

Dutch Marathon Skating Championships

Marijke Groenewoud and Daan Gelling Triumph

Marijke Groenewoud successfully defended her Dutch marathon skating title on artificial ice at Thialf in Heerenveen. Meanwhile, Daan Gelling won the men’s sprint race after an intense battle.

Championship results – ad.nl

Marijke and Daan crowned champions – nos.nl

From Emergency Care to Skating Glory

Intensive care doctor Eline Cox balanced her emergency duties on New Year’s Eve with competing in the marathon skating championship, exemplifying dedication on and off the ice.

Eline Cox’s inspiring story – nos.nl