What's Happening?
Jordan Stolz, a 21-year-old American speedskater, concluded his participation in the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics with a fourth-place finish in the men's mass start event. Despite having already secured two gold medals in the 500 and 1,000 meters
and a silver in the 1,500 meters, Stolz was unable to add another medal to his tally in the mass start race. The event saw Dutch skater Jorrit Bergsma and Denmark's Viktor Hald Thorup break away from the pack early on, maintaining their lead until the end. Stolz, without an American teammate to assist in strategy, found himself in a pack that was reluctant to chase the leaders, ultimately settling for third place. Stolz expressed that had he known the pack would hold back, he might have attempted an earlier attack, though he acknowledged that doing so could have jeopardized his chances of medaling.
Why It's Important?
Stolz's performance at the Olympics highlights the strategic complexities of mass start speedskating, where individual decisions and pack dynamics can significantly impact outcomes. His inability to secure a third gold medal underscores the challenges athletes face in events that require both individual skill and strategic collaboration. Stolz's achievements, however, remain significant, as he became the first American in decades to win multiple golds in long-track speedskating. This success not only elevates his status in the sport but also brings attention to U.S. speedskating, potentially inspiring future athletes and increasing interest in the sport domestically. The event also marked a historic moment for Jorrit Bergsma, who became the oldest Olympic speedskating champion, showcasing the longevity and competitiveness of athletes in the sport.
What's Next?
While Stolz's Olympic journey has concluded, his future in speedskating remains promising given his young age and recent successes. His performance may lead to increased support and resources for U.S. speedskating, as stakeholders recognize the potential for further international success. Stolz's experience in the mass start could inform future strategies, both for him and for the U.S. team, as they prepare for upcoming competitions. Additionally, the retirement of Mia Manganello, who secured a bronze in the women's mass start, opens opportunities for new talent to emerge in the U.S. women's speedskating team.
