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Milan-Cortina Speed Skating: A Dual-City Spectacle

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 14:13 GMT by NBC Washington
      Locales: Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, ITALY

A Dual-City Spectacle:

Unusually, the speed skating events will be split between two host cities, adding a logistical complexity and a unique flavor to the competition. Milan's Mattia Arena will host the initial flurry of races, focusing on the shorter distances and early rounds of key events. This modern, purpose-built arena is expected to create a vibrant atmosphere for both athletes and spectators. After February 15th, the action shifts to Cortina d'Ampezzo's Oval Lingez, a venue steeped in winter sports tradition. This transition will see the longer distances and endurance events take center stage, leveraging the high-altitude environment of Cortina for optimal performance.

The Schedule: A Race Against Time (and Time Zones)

The competition kicks off on February 11th with the women's and men's 500m sprints at the Mattia Arena. These races, known for their explosive starts and technical precision, will set the tone for the games. The schedule then moves through a series of individual distance races - 1000m, 1500m, 3000m, 5000m, and 10,000m - before culminating in the team pursuit and mass start events. A notable addition to the Olympic program is the mixed team relay, adding a dynamic and unpredictable element to the latter stages of the competition.

For North American viewers, it's important to note that all times listed are in Eastern Time (ET), meaning many events will take place overnight. Dedicated fans will need to set their alarms to catch the live action, or rely on replays and highlights.

Key Events to Watch:

• The Sprint Showdown (500m & 1000m): The 500m and 1000m races will undoubtedly be among the most exciting events, showcasing the pure speed and technique of the world's top sprinters. Expect intense battles for fractions of a second.
• Endurance Tests (3000m, 5000m, 10,000m): These longer distances will test the stamina and strategic racing abilities of the athletes. The Oval Lingez in Cortina, with its high altitude, will likely favor skaters who have trained specifically for these conditions.
• Team Pursuit: A Symphony of Speed and Tactics: The team pursuit is a thrilling event that requires not only individual speed but also seamless teamwork and tactical awareness. Expect dramatic finishes as teams push themselves to the limit.
• Mass Start: Chaos and Excitement: The mass start is a relatively new addition to the Olympic program, and it promises to be a chaotic and unpredictable race with multiple skaters battling for position and sprinting for the finish line.
• Mixed Team Relay: The New Kid on the Block: This event is designed to be fast-paced and exciting, and it could be a game-changer in the world of speed skating.

Looking Ahead: Potential Contenders and Rising Stars

While it's still early to predict the medalists, several skaters are already emerging as strong contenders. Keep an eye on established stars like current world record holders and former Olympic champions, as well as the next generation of rising stars who are pushing the boundaries of the sport. The 2026 Olympics are sure to showcase both seasoned veterans and exciting new talent, making for a captivating competition.

The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics promises a spectacular showcase of speed skating. With a dynamic schedule, two iconic venues, and a wealth of talented athletes, the event is set to captivate audiences worldwide.