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Dutch Speed Skating Fueled by Intense Rivalry

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 18:17 GMT by The Straits Times
      Locales: SINGAPORE, NETHERLANDS

Houten, Netherlands - February 10th, 2026 - The relentless pursuit of speed on the ice is a hallmark of Dutch speed skating, but a recent current is amplifying that tradition: internal competition. Antoinette de Jong, known to fans as Kok, articulated a sentiment echoing throughout the Dutch skating community - the intense rivalry isn't a detriment, but a crucial catalyst for pushing the boundaries of the sport.

Speaking after a silver medal performance in the 500m at the Thialf Cup in Heerenveen over the weekend, Kok emphasized the driving force behind the Netherlands' continued dominance. It's not simply about beating rivals like Femke Leerdam, although that rivalry is undeniably fierce. It's about a collective raising of the bar, spurred by both domestic talent and an increasingly competitive international field.

"We're constantly raising the bar," Kok stated. "With Femke, but also with others, the competition is so great. You only get to the top if you keep pushing each other. The competition is good for everyone." This isn't mere sportsmanship; it's a strategic acknowledgement of how excellence is forged in the crucible of challenge.

For decades, the Netherlands has been synonymous with speed skating success. The nation's training programs, unwavering support for athletes, and a cultural passion for the sport have consistently delivered record-breaking performances and Olympic glory. The iconic Thialf ice rink in Heerenveen, where Kok competed this weekend, has become a legendary venue, witnessing countless world records fall. However, the rise of skaters like Leerdam, combined with increasingly skilled international competitors, has introduced a new layer of intensity.

Leerdam, a particularly formidable opponent, has consistently challenged Kok for supremacy, forcing both skaters to evolve and refine their techniques. This dynamic isn't limited to their direct head-to-head matchups. Their rivalry sets a high standard for the entire Dutch team, compelling every skater to strive for greater speed, precision, and endurance. Analysts note a clear uptick in personal bests across the Dutch team in the past two seasons, a trend they attribute directly to this intensified internal competition.

Beyond Leerdam, international skaters are closing the gap. Athletes from the United States, Canada, and increasingly, Japan and South Korea, are investing heavily in speed skating programs and producing skaters capable of challenging the Dutch monopoly. This broader competitive landscape adds further pressure and necessitates continuous innovation.

Kok herself embodies the spirit of Dutch speed skating. Known for her affable personality and modest character, she has accrued a substantial collection of World Cup titles and Olympic medals. She isn't resting on her laurels, however, and continues to dedicate herself to training and improvement. Her ability to maintain a positive attitude amidst intense competition is seen as a key factor in her longevity and success.

Looking ahead to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, the pressure on the Dutch speed skating team will reach fever pitch. Selection for the Olympic squad will be fiercely contested, and every skater will need to prove their worth. Team dynamics will be crucial, and the ability to channel internal rivalry into collective success will be paramount.

Experts predict that the Dutch team will likely deploy a strategic approach, potentially rotating skaters across different distances to maximize their medal potential. The emphasis won't just be on individual glory, but on securing a dominant team performance. The competition amongst skaters for those coveted Olympic spots is already generating substantial media attention within the Netherlands.

Kok's perspective, therefore, isn't simply a comforting platitude. It's a pragmatic understanding of what it takes to remain at the pinnacle of a demanding sport. In the world of speed skating, stagnation is the enemy. The Dutch have embraced the challenge of relentless competition, transforming it into a powerful engine for progress and ensuring their continued reign as the gold standard in the world of ice speed.