Today: European Speed Skating Championships Highlight Thrilling Victories

Today: European Speed Skating Championships Highlight Thrilling Victories

Today Wrapped – January 11th 2026

Summary of January 11th 2026

  • Kaja Ziomek-Nogal claims European 500m gold
  • Nikola Zdráhalová and Peder Kongshaug defend titles in 1000m and 1500m
  • Team Netherlands and Denmark make historic gains
  • Mass start event dominated by Bart Swings amid controversy

Individual Sprint and Middle Distance Triumphs

Kaja Ziomek-Nogal captured the European 500 meters speed skating title in Tomaszów, Poland. Her strong performance edged out rivals including Isabel Grevelt and Ragne Wiklund, who won gold in the 1500 meters. Details can be found in Kaja Ziomek-Nogal Wins European 500m Speed Skating Title with Strong Performance.

Kaja Ziomek-Nogal celebrating victory

In the 1000m event, Nikola Zdráhalová claimed gold with a commanding finish. She was closely followed by Chloé Hoogendoorn (silver) and Isabel Grevelt (bronze). Read more at Nikola Zdráhalová Claims Gold in 1000m at European Speed Skating Championships.

Nikola Zdráhalová winning gold

Norwegian skater Peder Kongshaug successfully defended his title in the 1500m event, besting fierce competition including Bart Hoolwerf, who earned silver in the mass start discipline. Coverage is available at Peder Kongshaug Successfully Defends European Title in 1500m Speed Skating.

Peder Kongshaug competing in 1500m

Historic Milestones for Women’s Team and Denmark

The Dutch women marked a milestone by winning their first ever European Championship gold medal in the team pursuit event — a significant highlight for the Netherlands’ speed skating program. More details at Dutch Women Win First European Championship Gold in Team Pursuit.

Dutch women's team celebrating gold

Denmark also made history as Mathilde Thorup won the country’s first gold medal in the women’s mass start event at the championships, showcasing her impressive tactics and endurance. Read the full story at Thorup Wins Denmark’s First Gold Medal in Women’s Mass Start.

Mathilde Thorup celebrating mass start win

Mass Start Drama: Bart Swings Takes Gold Amid Recognition Disputes

Belgian skater Bart Swings won the gold medal in the men’s mass start event, outperforming competitors including Dutch silver medalist Bart Hoolwerf. However, Hoolwerf expressed disappointment regarding the lack of recognition he received despite a prominent role in the event’s outcome. The contrasting perspectives are covered in the articles:

Bart Swings competing in mass start
Bart Hoolwerf in action during mass start


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