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Stolz Claims Gold in Men's 1500m Speed Skating

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 11:13 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: CANADA, UNITED STATES, NETHERLANDS

Milan/Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy - February 19th, 2026 - In a breathtaking display of speed and precision, American speed skater Jordan Stolz has captured the gold medal in the men's 1500m event at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The victory, secured with a blistering time of 1:42.55, cements Stolz's position as a leading force in the world of long-track speed skating and marks a triumphant moment for the young athlete.

The 2026 Games have already been packed with exciting moments, but Stolz's performance stood out, captivating audiences with his relentless drive and remarkable technique. He didn't just win; he dominated. His qualifying time in Heat 1 - a swift 1:43.10 which put him in first place - signaled his intent to compete for the top spot. However, it was the final that truly showcased his potential.

From the starting gun, Stolz took control, setting a ferocious pace that challenged his rivals. He navigated the oval with seemingly effortless grace, maintaining a powerful stride and demonstrating impeccable cornering ability. Observers noted a significant improvement in his start, a key area of focus for his coach, Remy van den Berg, over the past season. Van den Berg emphasized that Stolz's dedication to refining this crucial aspect of his race was instrumental in securing the gold.

"Jordan has been working incredibly hard on his initial acceleration," Van den Berg explained in a post-race interview. "We knew that in a field as competitive as this, getting out front quickly was vital. He executed the plan perfectly."

The silver medal went to Netherlands' Kjeld Nuis, a veteran of the sport and the reigning Olympic champion from 2018 and 2022, clocking in at 1:43.02. Nuis, known for his strategic racing and endurance, pushed Stolz throughout the final lap, but ultimately couldn't match the American's sheer speed. Bronze was claimed by Canada's Laurent Dubreuil, finishing with a time of 1:43.51.

Stolz's journey to Olympic gold hasn't been without its challenges. He rose to prominence remarkably quickly, transitioning from inline skating to long track only a few years ago. This rapid ascent demanded a steep learning curve, adapting to the different techniques and demands of ice skating. However, his natural athleticism and unwavering commitment quickly made him a force to be reckoned with on the international stage. He first turned heads during the 2024 World Cup season, consistently finishing on the podium and signaling his arrival as a serious Olympic contender.

His win in Milan/Cortina is particularly noteworthy given the challenging conditions. The Olympic Oval, renowned for its demanding ice conditions and high altitude, tested the endurance and adaptability of all skaters. The cold temperatures and crisp air created a unique atmosphere, and the pressure of competing on the world's biggest stage added another layer of difficulty. Stolz, however, seemed unfazed, thriving under pressure and delivering a performance that transcended expectations.

The 1500m event has historically been a cornerstone of the Winter Olympics speed skating program. Past champions include legendary skaters like Eric Heiden and Shani Davis, adding to the prestige and significance of Stolz's victory. He joins an elite group of athletes who have etched their names into Olympic history, and his win is sure to inspire a new generation of speed skaters.

Looking ahead, Stolz is expected to compete in the 500m and 1000m events at these Olympics. With momentum on his side, and a gold medal already secured, many are predicting an even more dominant performance from the young American skater. The world will be watching to see if Jordan Stolz can solidify his legacy as one of the greatest speed skaters of all time.