Femke Kok secured a historic gold medal for the Netherlands in the women’s 500-meter speed skating event at the Milan 2026 Winter Olympics, marking the country’s 50th Olympic gold in long track speed skating.
Schaatsen.nl, a Dutch skating news outlet, reported the detailed results and developments from the competition in Milan on February 15, 2026.
Femke Kok lived up to her status as a favorite by winning the 500-meter race with a time of 36.49 seconds. She finished 0.66 seconds ahead of teammate Jutta Leerdam, who earned the silver medal, while Japan’s Miho Takagi took bronze. Kok’s performance is notable as it marks the first time the Netherlands has won gold in the women’s 500 meters, a distance historically dominated by skaters from other countries. This victory also represents the 50th gold medal in Olympic long track speed skating for the Netherlands, evenly split between male and female athletes.
In the decisive final heat, Kok competed against reigning Olympic champion Erin Jackson from the United States. Kok’s opening lap was exceptionally fast at 10.18 seconds, her personal best, and she maintained speeds of over 55 kilometers per hour, ultimately finishing well ahead. Jackson placed fifth in the event.
Aside from Kok’s success, the Dutch men’s team pursuit squad, including Chris Huizinga, Marcel Bosker, and Stijn van de Bunt, reached the semifinals after a close quarterfinal against France. Despite a slow start and losing the lead after the first exchange, the Dutch team advanced as the French team faltered late in the race. They are set to face Italy in the semifinals.
Other Dutch athletes also took part: Anna Boersma, making her Olympic debut, finished 15th in the 500 meters with a time of 38.01 seconds. Her coach described her as relaxed yet determined, and Boersma expressed enthusiasm about her first Olympic experience.
Historical context was highlighted by the fact that the women’s 500-meter event has been challenging for Netherlands speed skaters, with Margot Boer’s 2014 bronze previously being the only medal for the country in this distance. Kok’s gold thus represents a significant milestone. Former coach Frits Wouda praised Kok’s character and dedication, emphasizing her quiet determination and sportsmanship.
The day’s schedule also included team pursuit qualifications for the men as well as the pairs figure skating short program later that evening. The Olympic long track speed skating events continue with more promising competitions and performances expected throughout the Games.
