Speed Skating on Long Track: “The Best of Mortals”
Laurent Dubreuil claimed a bronze medal in the 500m speed skating event at the Olympic Games held in Milan on February 14, 2026. Dubreuil, a talented skater from Quebec, showcased remarkable skill on his preferred distance, even while facing stiff competition from elite athletes.
Key Highlights from the 500m Event
- Medal Winner: Laurent Dubreuil (Bronze)
- Date: February 14, 2026
- Location: Milan, Italy
- Gold Medalist: Jordan Stolz (USA) with a time of 33.77 seconds
- Silver Medalist: Jenning de Boo (Netherlands) with 33.88 seconds
- Best Time for Dubreuil: 34.26 seconds, a personal Olympic record
In the competition, Dubreuil found himself in a tense situation. Just before his race, he took a fall, yet he managed to keep his focus and outperform many competitors. He finished the race with a commendable time, which helped him secure a spot on the podium despite the pressure.
Dubreuil’s Performance Journey
Skating in the 10th pair, Dubreuil initially led the pack, striving to defend his position against challengers like Wataru Morishige from Japan and Norway’s Bjørn Magnussen. Although Dubreuil’s time fell short of his expectations, it was significant enough to earn him a record at sea level.
After racing, he watched the final heat while lying on his back, anxiously awaiting the results. The anticipation heightened as Stolz and de Boo bettered his score, showcasing their extraordinary talent. Dubreuil’s bronze medal was solidified when Morishige and Magnussen fell short of surpassing his time.
Emotional Response and Celebration
Upon learning of his podium finish, Dubreuil expressed disbelief and joy. Surrounded by teammates and coaching staff, he embraced the moment, acknowledging the support that contributed to his success. His coach, Gregor Jelonek, who has trained him since he was 17, played a crucial role in Dubreuil’s journey back to Olympic success.
Despite a challenging season filled with injuries and equipment failures, Dubreuil remained determined. He emphasized the importance of perseverance, especially as he aimed to set an example for his children, Rose and Nathan, who have been following his skating career closely.
Acknowledgments and Future Aspirations
Dubreuil graciously accepted his bronze medal alongside Stolz and de Boo, recognizing their exceptional abilities in the sport. This experience served as a significant milestone for him after narrowly missing the podium in previous Olympic events.
As Dubreuil prepares for the World Sprint Championships in the Netherlands, he looks forward to showing his medal to his family. Their support, along with his commitment to training, continues to motivate him as he aims for future successes on the international stage.
