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Martina Sablikova, the three-time Olympic speed skating champion from the Czech Republic, has withdrawn from the 3000-meter event at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics due to illness.
According to a statement posted on her Instagram account, Sablikova expressed deep disappointment over her inability to compete in the race scheduled for today. She described the decision as the most difficult sporting choice of her life, highlighting feelings of powerlessness and regret towards her supporters and fans. The Czech athlete’s withdrawal means she will not skate in the 3000-meter distance, one of the events where she was considered a strong contender.
Sablikova’s next scheduled race is the 5000-meter event, set for Thursday. There is hope that she will recover in time to participate. The veteran skater made her Olympic debut 20 years ago at the Turin 2006 Games and has won three gold medals in her career. She claimed titles in Vancouver 2010 for both the 3000 and 5000 meters and successfully defended her 5000-meter title at Sochi 2014.
Her absence in the 3000 meters marks a significant moment in the competition, where other skaters, including debutants such as Stijn van de Bunt, are also making their Olympic appearances. Coverage of the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympics, including live broadcasting of speed skating events, is being provided by Eurosport and HBO Max.
For additional details on the event and athlete updates, the Eurosport platform continues to offer live analysis and reporting.
