Norwegian speed skater Peder Kongshaug is preparing for the Milano Cortina Winter Games with the goal of winning his first individual Olympic gold, building on prior successes including world and European titles in the 1,500m event.
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Kongshaug, who was born in Wimbledon, England, and is 24 years old, has established a strong record in the 1,500m speed skating discipline. Since the Beijing Winter Olympics, where he earned a team pursuit gold medal, Kongshaug has added significant individual achievements including the 1,500m world championship title in Hamar in 2025 and consecutive European championships in Heerenveen in 2024 and Tomaszow Mazowiecki in 2026.
Speaking to reporters in Milan, Kongshaug reflected on his career progress and expressed confidence without pressure. He stated that having won the three major titles — Olympic, European, and world championship gold — he approaches the upcoming Olympics with a calm mindset and views any further victories as additional accomplishments rather than necessities. Kongshaug said, “I still feel eager to hunt that (individual Olympic) gold medal, but I don’t feel like my life depends on it… I think I will be able to do that.”
The competition in Milan will be intense, particularly from 21-year-old American Jordan Stolz, who has emerged as a leading contender in multiple events including the 500m, 1,000m, and 1,500m, as well as the mass start race. Kongshaug acknowledged Stolz’s exceptional talent and impact on the sport, noting that Stolz has raised the level of competition and inspired his peers.
However, Kongshaug remains optimistic about his own chances, recalling previous occasions when he has beaten Stolz and expressing belief that he can do so again. His experience and steady performance have made him one of the top athletes to watch at the upcoming Winter Games.
