High-speed excitement is anticipated at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium as the Women’s 1,000-meter Speed Skating finals are set for February 9 during the 2026 Winter Olympics. As a thrilling event within the Winter Games since their inception in 1924, speed skating demands athletes master a combination of speed, stability, and endurance.
Among the frontrunners for the 1,000-meter race are notable athletes from the Netherlands, including Femke Kok, Marrit Fledderus, and Jutta Leerdam, each of whom holds strong potential to clinch a medal. Leerdam notably earned a silver medal in the 2022 Beijing Olympics, adding to the anticipation for her performance in Milan.
Defending champion Miho Takagi from Japan will also be a key competitor to watch. Although her recent performance has not been as dominant, Takagi has shown the ability to deliver exceptional results under pressure, which could make her a wildcard in the race.
American speed skater Brittany Bowe, the reigning Olympic bronze medalist, is another athlete to keep on the radar. She has matched the pace set by her Dutch counterparts throughout the current season, making her a valuable contender in this fast-paced event.
Fans can catch the action live on USA Network, with coverage starting at 11:30 a.m. ET, followed by NBC’s broadcast at 12 p.m. The race promises to deliver thrill and speed, with several top athletes vying for Olympic glory.