Jutta Leerdam, the recently crowned 1000m Olympic champion, is set to compete for a second gold medal in the 500m speed skating event at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
According to Olympics.com, the Dutch athlete, who achieved a new Olympic record of 1:12.31 in the 1000m race held at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium, will participate in the 500m event on Sunday, February 15, during the Milano Cortina Winter Games.
Leerdam is expected to face significant competition from her compatriot Femke Kok, the current world champion who finished second in the 1000m final. The two Dutch skaters have a reputation for pushing each other to excel, and their rivalry is anticipated to be a key feature of the sprint event. Leerdam, 27, enjoys considerable popularity as the most followed speed skater on Instagram, and her strengths include explosive starts and aerodynamic form.
Femke Kok, 25, known for her powerful starts and composure under pressure, also holds the world record in the 500m event. Another notable contender is American Erin Jackson, the defending champion, who will be aiming to maintain her top position amid strong competition.
