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A Week of Speed: Competition Schedule Revealed

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 16:04 GMT by NBC 7 San Diego
      Locales: Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, ITALY

A Week of Speed: The Competition Schedule

The speed skating program kicks off on Wednesday, February 18th, with the Women's Mass Start at 10:00 AM CET. This event, known for its tactical racing and unpredictable finish, will immediately set the tone for the week. Following swiftly is the Men's 500m at 1:00 PM CET, a sprint event demanding explosive power and precision. The initial days focus heavily on the shorter distances, offering a rapid-fire display of speed and skill.

February 19th and 20th continue the sprint and middle-distance focus. The Women's 500m and Men's 1000m races will take place on the 19th, followed by the Women's 1000m and Men's 1500m on the 20th. These races highlight the importance of cornering technique and maintaining top speed throughout multiple laps.

The middle of the week, February 21st and 22nd, introduces the team pursuit events and longer distances. Teams will compete head-to-head in the Men's and Women's Team Pursuit, demanding both individual speed and coordinated strategy. The Women's 3000m race also takes center stage on the 22nd, showcasing endurance and consistent pacing.

The final two days, February 23rd and 24th, will be dedicated to the longest distances and a thrilling finale. The Men's 5000m and Women's 5000m events test skaters' ultimate endurance capabilities. The Men's 10,000m, the longest distance in speed skating, will demand peak physical and mental fortitude. The games conclude with the Mixed Team Relay on February 24th, a dynamic event that combines the speed of individuals with the strategy of a team - and promises a spectacular end to the competition.

The Oval Milano: A State-of-the-Art Venue

All events will be held at the Oval Milano, a newly constructed indoor speed skating arena. The venue is designed to meet the highest international standards, ensuring optimal ice conditions and a comfortable experience for both athletes and spectators. The indoor setting provides protection from the elements, guaranteeing consistent racing conditions regardless of the weather. Located in Milan, the venue is easily accessible for fans and offers a vibrant atmosphere.

What to Watch For: Key Athletes and Potential Upsets

While it's still early to predict specific outcomes, several skaters are expected to be contenders for medals. Keep an eye on athletes who have consistently performed well on the World Cup circuit, as well as emerging talents who may surprise. The 500m and 1000m distances are often unpredictable, with multiple skaters capable of challenging for the top spot. The longer distances, such as the 5000m and 10,000m, will likely be dominated by skaters with proven endurance and strategic racing skills. The team pursuit events are notoriously competitive, with slight tactical errors often determining the winner. Don't underestimate the power of the Mixed Team Relay, where unexpected combinations and aggressive strategies can lead to surprising results.

The 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics promises a thrilling week of speed skating action. With a diverse range of events, a state-of-the-art venue, and a field of talented athletes, fans are in for a treat. Be sure to tune in to witness the world's fastest skaters compete for Olympic glory.