Italian Speedskater Andrea Giovannini Celebrates Olympic Upset with Steph Curry Move
At the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, a remarkable event unfolded in the men’s team pursuit speedskating competition. Italian athlete Andrea Giovannini led his team to an unexpected gold medal victory against the United States, who were considered the favorites.
Giovannini’s Victory and Celebration
On February 17, 2026, Giovannini executed an impressive upset by breaking out a signature celebration inspired by NBA star Steph Curry. Performing Curry’s iconic “night, night” gesture, he signaled that the competition was finished after his team, including Francesco Betti, triumphed over the Americans.
Insight from the Champion
Reflecting on the race, Giovannini remarked, “The last lap, we were in control.” His admiration for Curry’s talent fueled his motivation as he waited for the finish line. He had shared his celebration plans with Betti, his Olympic roommate, earlier in the competition, expressing his excitement about emulating the basketball legend.
The Medal Standings
The Italian speedskating team won gold, marking their first victory in this event in two decades. They completed the race 4.5 seconds ahead of the American team, which included Casey Dawson, Emery Lehman, and Ethan Cepuran.
- Gold Medalists: Andrea Giovannini, Francesco Betti (Italy)
- Silver Medalists: Casey Dawson, Emery Lehman, Ethan Cepuran (USA)
The American Perspective
The American team, despite their loss, took the setback in stride. Lehaman stated, “It’s better than getting two middle fingers from the Russians four years ago.” This reflection highlights their attitude towards competition and sportsmanship.
Giovannini’s Teammate and Perspective
Giovannini’s teammate, Davide Ghiotto, did not witness the celebration and admitted to not knowing who Steph Curry is. This underscores the cultural differences and varying levels of recognition between sports icons across different fields.
This memorable performance stands as a testament to the spirit of the Winter Olympics, showcasing talent, rivalry, and the influence of athletes across different sports.
