Hungarian Men's Speed Skating Team Finishes 4th at Milan Olympics 2026

The Evolving Landscape of Short Track Speed Skating: From Hungarian Glory to Future Challenges

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The recent World Championship performance of the Hungarian men's 5000m relay team in Milan highlights a fascinating moment in the sport of short track speed skating. Although falling short of a medal – finishing fourth and heading to the B final – their journey reflects broader trends impacting the competitive landscape.

Why it matters

The presence of Liu Shaoang and the Chinese team is a key indicator of the sport's evolving dynamics, with athletes changing national allegiance driven by factors like funding and training opportunities. This trend is likely to continue shaping the competitive field. Additionally, the Hungarian team's reliance on a relatively young competitor like Major Dominik points to the critical demand for robust youth development programs.

The details

The Hungarian team's near miss, compounded by a fall from Major Dominik, underscores the increasing intensity and unpredictable nature of the sport. Major Dominik's post-race comment about unstable blades and soft ice raises a significant point about the impact of ice conditions on performance. Advancements in skate technology – blade materials, boot construction, and overall design – are constantly evolving, offering potential performance gains.

  • The recent World Championship performance of the Hungarian men's 5000m relay team in Milan took place in 2026.

The players

Liu Shaoang

Previously a member of the Hungarian gold-medal winning team in 2018, Liu Shaoang now competes for China, demonstrating the growing investment and talent acquisition strategies employed by nations aiming for dominance in short track speed skating.

Major Dominik

A relatively young competitor who joined the Hungarian team from the junior world championships, Major Dominik's fall highlights the challenges of integrating less experienced skaters into high-pressure international competitions.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.