Historic Gold for Host Nation
Francesca Lollobrigida has delivered Italy its inaugural gold medal at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, dominating the women's 3000m speed skating event. The victory, achieved on Saturday, February 7, 2026, marked a significant moment for the host nation and for Lollobrigida, who celebrated her 35th birthday on the day of her triumph.
Competing at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium, Lollobrigida not only secured the gold but also established a new Olympic record with a time of 3 minutes, 54.28 seconds. This impressive performance shaved more than two-and-a-half seconds off the previous record of 3:56.93, set by Dutch legend Irene Schouten at the Beijing 2022 Games.
A Career-Defining Achievement
This gold medal represents Italy's first in women's speed skating at the Olympic Games and is the first medal of any kind for the host nation at Milan Cortina 2026. Lollobrigida, a four-time Olympian, also became the oldest speed skater to win Olympic gold in this event. Her journey to this historic win included battling a viral infection earlier in the season and contemplating retirement prior to the Games.
The podium was completed by Ragne Wiklund of Norway, who earned the silver medal with a time of 3:56.54, and Valérie Maltais of Canada, who secured the bronze with 3:56.93. Lollobrigida's final time was over two seconds faster than Wiklund's.
The Milan Cortina 2026 Games Underway
The XXV Winter Olympic Games, officially known as Milan Cortina 2026, commenced with selected events on February 4, 2026, and the official opening ceremony on February 6, 2026. The Games are set to continue until February 22, 2026, across various venues in Lombardy and Northeast Italy. Milan is primarily hosting the ice events, including speed skating.
Lollobrigida's emotional victory, celebrated in front of a roaring home crowd, was described by her as 'the dream of the dream.' She acknowledged the support of those who believed in her, as well as those who doubted, stating, 'They gave me the power to prove myself.'
5 Comments
BuggaBoom
A true legend! Breaking a record on her birthday, you can't write a better script.
KittyKat
While this gold medal is a huge morale booster for the host nation, the article mentions she contemplated retirement and battled illness. It makes you consider the immense physical and mental toll these athletes endure.
Eugene Alta
Inspiring to see an older athlete defy expectations. Pure grit!
Katchuka
Unbelievable speed and determination. She absolutely crushed it!
BuggaBoom
YES! Finally a gold for the home team! This is the energy we needed.