Dutch speed skater Jutta Leerdam claimed Olympic glory today, winning the women's 1000m event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games in a heart-stopping race that saw teammate Femke Kok take silver. 🥇🥈 The duo's 1-2 finish marked the Netherlands' third speed skating podium sweep of the competition so far.
Leerdam smashed the Olympic record twice within minutes—first by Kok's 1:12.59 run, then by her own blistering 1:12.31 sprint. 'This is surreal,' said the 27-year-old, who famously balances skating with modeling gigs. 'I peaked at the right moment—it's just insane!'
Record-Breaking Ice Drama ❄️
Kok, this season's World Cup leader, initially dethroned Japan's Miho Takagi (2018 record holder) before Leerdam's final-pair heroics. 'When I saw green [on the results board], I thought—this is a dream!' Leerdam laughed, referencing the color indicating a winning time.
The victory adds to the Netherlands' legendary ice legacy, with fans dubbing the event 'Orange Crush 2.0' after their dominant 2022 performance. Up next: Can Leerdam challenge her own record in Saturday's 1500m? ⏱️
