Jordan Stolz Wins Olympic Gold in Men’s 1000m, Sets New Record at 2026 Winter Games
MILAN — American speed skater Jordan Stolz delivered a powerful performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, capturing gold in the men’s 1000 meters and setting a new Olympic record at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium. The 21‑year‑old’s victory marked his first Olympic medal — and a historic moment for Team USA in long‑track speed skating.
Stolz crossed the finish line in 1 minute, 6.28 seconds, eclipsing the longstanding Olympic record of 1:07.18 that had stood since 2002 — a championship mark set before he was born. His commanding effort put him more than half a second ahead of Dutch skater Jenning de Boo, who took silver, while China’s Ning Zhongyan earned the bronze.
Mastering the Big Stage
The men’s 1000m event did not unfold without drama. A collision between other competitors earlier in the day triggered a re‑skate for the Dutch skater Joep Wennemars, but that effort did not threaten Stolz’s time and left him atop the podium with a comfortable margin.
Stolz’s finish continues a remarkable trajectory for the Wisconsin native. At age 17, he finished outside the top 10 in his first Olympic appearance at Beijing 2022; four years later, he stood on the ice in Milan clutching gold. It was also the first U.S. medal in the Olympic men’s 1000m since Shani Davis won gold in Vancouver 2010.
A Bigger Campaign Ahead
This gold medal not only marked a milestone in Stolz’s career but also underscored his potential for sweeping success in Milano. He is scheduled to race in the 500 meters, 1500 meters and mass start events later in the Games — a schedule that opens the door to multiple medals and comparisons to legendary American speed skaters.
Stolz’s dominance this season — including multiple World Cup victories and a world record in the 1000m — has made him a focal point for U.S. Olympic hopes. If he continues at this pace, the young phenom could join the ranks of icons such as Eric Heiden, the only American with five individual speed‑skating golds in a single Winter Games.
Team USA’s Winter Games Momentum
Stolz’s gold contributed to a strong early showing for Team USA, which has earned multiple medals across varied disciplines in Milan–Cortina, from skiing and figure skating to snowboarding and speed sports. The depth of American success highlights a diversified Winter Games campaign that has resonated with fans back home.
Looking Forward
As the Games continue, all eyes will remain on Jordan Stolz — a young athlete whose record‑setting speed and competitive poise have injected fresh energy into U.S. speed skating. With more races on the horizon, his campaign is far from over, and the Winter Olympics might yet offer more moments to etch his name into sporting history.
