World record holder from the Netherlands Femke Kok triumphed in the women's 500m speed skating event at the 2026 Winter Olympics, setting a new Olympic record – 36.49 seconds, BTA reports. Kok, a three-time world champion, started the final heat alongside 2022 Winter Olympics champion Erin Jackson, and the two offered an impressive finish for the spectators.
The silver medal was won by another Dutch representative – Jutta Leerdam, who finished in 37.15 seconds, 0.66 behind the champion.
The bronze went to Japan's Miho Takagi with a time of 37.27 seconds (+0.78). Takagi added the distinction to her silver in the 500 meters from the previous Olympics and now has a total of nine Olympic medals.
Fourth was 21-year-old Italian Sara Perger (+0.81), while Jackson, who had equipment problems before her start, finished fifth, 0.83 seconds behind.