A Nail-Biting Duel on the Ice (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Milan, Italy – Jordan Stolz delivered another stunning performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics, securing gold in the men’s 500-meter speedskating with an Olympic-record time of 33.77 seconds.[1][2]
A Nail-Biting Duel on the Ice
The 21-year-old American from Wisconsin raced in the penultimate pairing against Netherlands’ Jenning de Boo, the silver medalist from the 1,000 meters earlier in the week. Stolz unleashed a powerful finishing kick on the final straightaway, edging out de Boo by 0.11 seconds. Laurent Dubreuil of Canada earned bronze with a time of 34.26 seconds, marking his nation’s first medal in the event since 1998.[3]
Stolz’s time eclipsed the previous Olympic record of 34.27 seconds set by China’s Gao Tingyu in 2022. De Boo, cheered by throngs of orange-clad fans at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium, later reflected on the tight contest. “This silver medal tastes a little bit less sweet than the one in the 1,000m,” he said, noting the 500 meters as his specialty distance.[3]
| Position | Athlete | Country | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jordan Stolz | USA | 33.77 (OR) |
| 2 | Jenning de Boo | NED | 33.88 |
| 3 | Laurent Dubreuil | CAN | 34.26 |
Etching Name in Olympic History
Stolz became the first man to win both the 500 and 1,000 meters at the same Olympics since Eric Heiden accomplished the feat at Lake Placid in 1980. Heiden swept five golds that year, a mark Stolz eyes with respect but without pressure. This victory also marked the first U.S. men’s 500-meter Olympic gold since Joey Cheek triumphed in 2006.[2]
The Wisconsin native’s back-to-back Olympic records in four days highlighted his dominance in sprint distances. Dubreuil, who briefly held the record during the session, called it the toughest 500-meter field ever. Stolz himself noted the intensity: “Coming down the last hundred meters, I thought I should be able to beat him and that’s exactly what I did.”[3]
From Small-Town Roots to Global Stardom
Raised in Wisconsin, Stolz emerged as a prodigy in speedskating, quickly rising through world ranks. At just 21, he entered Milano Cortina as a medal favorite after strong pre-Games showings. His first gold came Wednesday in the 1,000 meters, where he also set an Olympic record.[1]
Observers watched seven-time gymnastics champion Simone Biles in the stands as Stolz dueled de Boo skate-to-skate. The American’s technical precision and explosive speed have drawn comparisons to legends, though he remains focused on the present.
Eyes on a Historic Quadruple
Stolz eyes more medals in the 1,500 meters later this week and the mass start on February 21. A sweep of all four events would cement his place among the greats. Team USA speedskating gains momentum with his successes amid a competitive field dominated by Dutch and Canadian skaters.
- 1,500 meters: Thursday
- Mass start: Feb. 21
- Potential for four golds
Stolz’s relentless pace redefines American expectations in speedskating, proving youth and preparation can conquer tradition. As the Games progress, his story inspires a new generation on the ovals. What do you think of Stolz’s chances for more gold? Tell us in the comments.
Key Takeaways
- Stolz’s 33.77 seconds marks the second Olympic record in four days.
- First U.S. man to win 500m gold since 2006.
- Joins elite company with Heiden’s 1980 double.
