Rijpma-de Jong Secures 1500m Gold as Takagi Eyes Redemption in Milan
The Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 have already delivered thrilling moments, with Dutch speed skater Ireen Rijpma-de Jong claiming gold in the women’s 1500m event. Meanwhile, Japan’s Miho Takagi, a dominant force in speed skating, is focused on securing gold in the 1500m after collecting three bronze medals in other events.
Rijpma-de Jong’s Triumph
Ireen Rijpma-de Jong of the Netherlands won the gold medal in the women’s 1500m, marking a significant victory for the Dutch team. The win comes after she dedicated herself to the 1500m following her performance in the Olympic trials [Source].
Takagi’s Pursuit of 1500m Gold
Miho Takagi (JPN) has already secured three bronze medals at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 in the 1000m, 500m, and Team Pursuit [Source]. Having won silver behind Ireen Wüst (NED) four years ago in Beijing, Takagi is now determined to claim gold in her signature event, the 1500m. With Wüst now retired, Takagi faces strong competition from other Dutch skaters.
Challenges and Rivalries
Despite the strong Dutch presence, one key rival will be absent from the 1500m race. Joy Beune (NED), who won all four 1500m competitions in the World Cup series, failed to qualify for the distance at the Dutch Olympic trials last December [Source]. Takagi expressed surprise at Beune’s absence and acknowledged the special nature of competing at the Olympic Games [Source].
Dutch Successes in Milan
The Netherlands has already celebrated success in Milan, with Jutta Leerdam winning gold and Femke Kok securing silver in the 1,000 meters [Source]. Leerdam praised Kok’s achievement, highlighting the competitive spirit that drives both skaters to excel [Source]. Kok, but, expressed disappointment with her silver, believing her time could have been enough for gold [Source].
Looking Ahead
As the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 continue, all eyes will be on Miho Takagi as she strives for 1500m gold. The competition promises to be fierce, with the Dutch team posing a significant challenge.