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U.S. Olympic Speed Skating Trials: Your Guide to Watching in 2026

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 9:02 GMT by NBC Sports

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Get Ready to Race: Your Guide to Watching the 2026 U.S. Olympic Speed Skating Trials

The excitement is building! The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo are on the horizon, and a crucial step towards sending America’s best speed skaters to Italy will be the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Speed Skating. NBC Sports has laid out all the details on how fans can witness this high-stakes competition, which promises thrilling races and emotional moments as athletes vie for a coveted spot on the national team. Here's everything you need to know about watching the trials.

Where and When Will They Be Held?

The 2026 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Speed Skating will be held in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, from December 13-15, 2025. Calgary was selected as the host city due to its rich history of speed skating and excellent facilities – a fitting location considering it hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics where speed skating played a prominent role. The choice also reflects a collaborative effort between U.S. Speedskating and Explore Calgary, aiming to create a memorable event for both athletes and spectators. The trials will take place at the Olympic Oval in Calgary, renowned as one of the fastest ice rinks in the world.

How to Watch: A Multi-Platform Approach

NBC Sports is committed to bringing the 2026 Speed Skating Trials to a wide audience through a variety of platforms. Here's a breakdown of your viewing options:

• Television: The trials will be broadcast live on NBC and USA Network. While specific schedules haven’t been released yet (as of late October 2023), expect comprehensive coverage across both networks throughout the three-day event. NBC typically airs prime-time events, while USA Network provides more extensive coverage for dedicated fans.
• Streaming: Live streaming will be available on Peacock, NBC's streaming service. A Peacock Premium subscription is required to access the live trials. This offers a convenient way to watch from anywhere with an internet connection. The article notes that replays and highlights will also be available on Peacock after the events conclude, allowing viewers who miss the live broadcast to catch up.
• NBC Sports Digital Platforms: Beyond Peacock, you can find updates, results, and potentially short-form video content on NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports app. These platforms often provide behind-the-scenes glimpses and athlete profiles leading up to and during the trials.
• International Broadcasts: While this article focuses on U.S. viewing options, international fans can find broadcast details through U.S. Speedskating's website or by checking local listings closer to the event date.

Understanding the Competition: What to Expect

The Trials are more than just races; they’re a pressure cooker where athletes must perform at their absolute best to secure a spot on Team USA. Here's what viewers can anticipate:

• Distance Races: Speed skating encompasses various distances, including 500m, 1000m, 1500m, 3000m (women), 5000m (men), and the mass start. The trials will feature all of these events, providing a diverse range of racing styles and strategies for viewers to enjoy.
• Mass Start Drama: The Mass Start is particularly exciting, involving multiple skaters competing simultaneously in a chaotic race to the finish line. Expect strategic blocking, tactical maneuvers, and nail-biting finishes.
• The Pursuit: Team pursuit races are another key event, requiring exceptional teamwork and coordination. These events showcase not only individual speed but also the ability of athletes to work together towards a common goal.
• Qualifying Process & Selection Criteria: The article highlights that qualifying for the trials itself is a rigorous process. Athletes must meet specific performance standards throughout the season to even be eligible to compete. The selection criteria for the Olympic team are complex, taking into account trial performances, World Cup results, and other factors determined by U.S. Speedskating.

Key Athletes to Watch (and Potential New Faces)

While it's too early to definitively name the top contenders for 2026, several established American speed skaters will likely be aiming for a return to the Olympics. Names like Brittany Bowe (who has been a dominant force in women’s long-distance skating), Joey Mantia (a veteran with multiple Olympic appearances), and Ethan Cepuran (rising star) are expected to be among those vying for spots. However, keep an eye out for emerging talents who could challenge the established order – the trials often provide opportunities for new athletes to break through. The article encourages fans to follow U.S. Speedskating's social media channels and website for athlete profiles and updates as the 2025 season progresses.

Staying Informed: Resources for Fans

To stay up-to-date on all things speed skating, here are some valuable resources:

• U.S. Speedskating: [ https://www.usspeedskating.org/ ] – The official website provides news, schedules, athlete information, and more.
• NBC Sports Website & App: For live results, highlights, and analysis during the trials.
• Peacock: For streaming access to the event.

The 2026 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Speed Skating in Calgary promises a thrilling spectacle of athleticism and determination. With NBC Sports providing comprehensive coverage across multiple platforms, fans have ample opportunities to witness this pivotal moment in American speed skating history. Mark your calendars for December 13-15, 2025 – the race to Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo begins!