Milan – Femke Kok of the Netherlands delivered a blistering performance to win gold in the women’s 500m speed skating event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on Sunday, securing her nation’s first ever Olympic title in the event. The victory came as Japan’s Miho Takagi added to her already impressive Olympic career, claiming the bronze medal and bringing her total medal count to nine across four Winter Games. The women’s 500m speed skating event saw a reversal of fortunes for the Dutch team, with Kok surpassing compatriot Jutta Leerdam, who had previously taken gold in the 1000m event earlier in the week.
Kok’s winning time of 36.49 seconds not only secured her the gold medal but also established a new Olympic record, eclipsing the previous mark. She finished ahead of Leerdam (37.15) and Takagi (37.27), completing a podium that mirrored the recent 1000m results, albeit in a different order. This win marks a significant breakthrough for the Netherlands, delivering their first medals in the women’s 500m since 2014 and their first-ever Olympic gold in the event. More details on Kok’s record-breaking performance are available on the official Olympics website.
Kok’s Dominance and a Two-Year Unbeaten Streak
The Dutch skater laid the foundation for her victory with the fastest opening 100m of the field, clocking in at 10.18 seconds. She then powered through the final lap with a time of 26.31, ultimately winning by a margin of 0.66 seconds. Remarkably, Kok has maintained an impressive unbeaten run in the 500m since February 2, 2024 – a streak extending beyond two years. NBC Olympics reports that this consistent performance added significant pressure leading up to the Games, a challenge Kok acknowledged and successfully overcame.
“This really is a relief. I’m so proud I made it happen,” Kok said after the race. “This is what I dreamed about as a little girl and that it happens today is so special.”
Takagi Continues to Make History
For Japan’s Miho Takagi, the bronze medal represents another milestone in a decorated Olympic career. The 31-year-vintage skater, who holds the 1500m world record since 2019, now boasts nine Olympic medals, solidifying her position as Japan’s most decorated Winter Olympian. She previously secured a silver medal in the 500m at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. According to NBC Olympics, Takagi could potentially add to her medal count in the team pursuit and 1500m events.
Dutch Dominance and Leerdam’s Silver
The Netherlands continues to demonstrate its strength in speed skating at the Milano Cortina 2026 Games, having secured eight medals – more than twice as many as any other nation. Norway and Italy each have three medals, even as the United States has two, both won by Jordan Stolz. Jutta Leerdam’s silver medal in the 500m adds to her impressive performance at these Games, following her gold medal in the 1000m. This is Leerdam’s first Olympic medal in the 500m event. The Dutch duo’s consistent presence on the podium highlights the nation’s prowess in the sport.
The women’s 500m podium mirrored the results from the 1000m event held on February 9th, showcasing the consistent performance of these top skaters. Leerdam claimed 1000m gold in an Olympic record time of 1:12.31, while Takagi secured bronze in that event as well.
The Netherlands’ success in speed skating is a testament to their long-standing tradition and investment in the sport. The team’s performance at the Milano Cortina 2026 Games underscores their continued dominance on the international stage. The competition continues with upcoming events, including the team pursuit and 1500m, where Takagi will have the opportunity to further expand her Olympic medal tally.
The next opportunity to witness Miho Takagi compete will be in the team pursuit on February 17th, followed by the 1500m event on February 20th. These events will be closely watched as Takagi aims to become only the second speed skater to earn 10 Olympic medals.
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