Speed skating will feature prominently at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, with a total of 14 events scheduled across various disciplines. This sport is widely regarded as one of the most accessible Winter Olympic events, as many have experienced gliding on ice at local rinks. Athletes will compete in an indoor 400-meter ice rink, racing individually against the clock, in team pursuits, or in mass start events.
The competition will showcase both men’s and women’s events, with the women racing in the 500m, 1,000m, 1,500m, 3,000m, 5,000m, mass start, and team pursuit disciplines. The men’s events include the 500m, 1,000m, 1,500m, 5,000m, 10,000m, mass start, and team pursuit. Among the athletes to watch is Jordan Stolz, an American skater who has dominated the World Cup circuit and is a favorite for multiple gold medals.
Another key contender is Jutta Leerdam from the Netherlands, particularly strong in the women’s 1,000m. The competition promises to be fierce, especially in the longer distances, where athletes like Stijn van de Bunt will also be vying for medals. Mass start and team pursuit events are known for their unpredictability, adding an element of excitement to the competition.
Where to Watch Speed Skating Live
Fans can access live streams of speed skating events through various platforms, with many options available for free in several countries. In the UK, viewers can tune in to BBC iPlayer and TNT Sports. It is important to note that the BBC’s coverage may be limited to key races, while Discovery+ offers comprehensive coverage at a starting price of £3.99 per month.
Canadian viewers can watch events on CBC, where CBC Gem will provide extensive coverage, including over 2,000 hours of live and on-demand action throughout the Games. This platform will ensure fans do not miss any of the speed skating fixtures.
In Australia, speed skating will be broadcast via 9Now and Stan Sport. While 9Now offers some free-to-air coverage, a subscription to Stan Sport will be necessary for full access, starting at AU$20 per month.
For viewers in the USA, NBC and its affiliates, including Peacock, will air the events. Peacock is set to provide comprehensive coverage, with a subscription starting at $10.99 per month. Additionally, YouTube TV offers a 21-day trial for new users, allowing access to NBC’s coverage for free during this period.
Using VPNs for Access
For fans traveling abroad during the Winter Olympics, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help access home streaming services. This option ensures that viewers can continue to follow their favorite athletes and events regardless of their location.
As the countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics continues, speed skating promises to deliver thrilling performances and potentially historic moments. With the right access, fans from around the world can experience the excitement of this fast-paced sport and cheer for their favorite competitors.
