Jordan Stolz Targets Five Gold Medals at Milano-Cortina Olympics

As the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympics approach, speed skating star Jordan Stolz from the United States is setting his sights on an extraordinary achievement: winning five gold medals. At just 21 years old, Stolz eyes the winter sports record held by Eric Heiden, who achieved the same feat in 1980. Over recent Olympic cycles, Stolz has showcased his talent in the 500m, 1,000m, and 1,500m events, claiming world titles in each for two consecutive years.

Despite battling pneumonia last season, Stolz managed podium finishes. This year, he remains undefeated in the 1,000m and 1,500m during the World Cup circuit. Additionally, there’s speculation that he may join the American team pursuit squad, which could provide another opportunity to compete for gold, thanks to the team’s strong projected performance.

Other Contenders to Watch

• Martina Sablikova (Czechia): With seven Olympic medals and 27 world championship medals, Sablikova will compete in her final Olympics, bringing unmatched experience.
• Metoděj Jílek (Czechia): At 19, Jílek recently captured bronze in the 10,000m and leads the World Cup long-distance standings, seeking even more success.
• David Ghiotto (Italy): The bronze medallist from Beijing hopes the home crowd’s support will help him secure gold in the 10,000m.
• Miho Takagi (Japan): Takagi, a decorated skater with seven Olympic medals, is expected to contend for multiple medals again, including the 1,000m and 1,500m.
• Damian Zurek (Poland): Bursting onto the scene with a bronze at the world championships, Zurek will be a strong competitor in both the 500m and 1,000m.
• Femke Kok (Netherlands): An undefeated athlete this season, Kok holds the world record for the 500m and aims to add an Olympic title to her portfolio.
• Sander Eitrem (Norway): Eitrem recently broke the world record in the 5,000m, finishing in under six minutes, and will target podium finishes in multiple events.
• Ragne Wiklund (Norway): After a promising performance in prior championships, Wiklund is expected to shine in the 1,500m and other long-distance events.

Stolz’s Path to Glory

Jordan Stolz’s pursuit of five gold medals at the Milano-Cortina Olympics is ambitious but not unprecedented. His current trajectory suggests he may well be on the path to replicate Heiden’s remarkable achievement. As the games draw nearer, fans and experts alike will be watching closely to see if Stolz can deliver on his promise and become one of the most decorated athletes in Olympic speed skating history.