Jordan Stolz Wins First Olympic Gold in 1000m

Hometown hero from Wisconsin sets new Olympic record

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Jordan Stolz, a 21-year-old speedskater from the Town of Wayne, Wisconsin, won the gold medal in the men's 1000m event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. Stolz set a new Olympic record with a time of 1:06.28, breaking the previous mark that had stood since 2002. Stolz edged out Dutch favorite Jenning De Boo in a thrilling finish, kicking it into high gear on the final lap to claim the top spot on the podium.

Why it matters

Stolz's victory is a major triumph for the small Wisconsin town he hails from, as well as for the U.S. speedskating program, which has struggled to produce Olympic champions in recent years. The win also cements Stolz's status as a rising star in the sport, building on his success on the World Cup circuit.

The details

In a tightly contested race, Stolz trailed De Boo for much of the 1000m event before making his move on the final lap. Stolz's powerful finishing kick allowed him to surge past De Boo and set a new Olympic record. The victory came after a brief delay due to a foul in an earlier pairing, which Stolz was able to refocus and overcome.

  • On July 4, Stolz allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Stolz allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Stolz allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Jordan Stolz

A 21-year-old speedskater from the Town of Wayne, Wisconsin who won the gold medal in the men's 1000m event at the 2026 Winter Olympics, setting a new Olympic record.

Jenning De Boo

A Dutch speedskater who was the favorite to win the men's 1000m event at the 2026 Winter Olympics, but was edged out by Stolz in a thrilling finish.

Bob Corby

The coach of gold medalist Jordan Stolz, who guided Stolz's preparation and strategy for the Olympic 1000m race.

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What they’re saying

“Wonderful to see Jordan stepping up on the big stage and coming away with the gold and breaking the Olympic record that stood since 2002. Couldn't be happier for him and his family and supporters.”

— Shani Davis, Olympic Gold Medalist

“It was an incredibly proud and energetic moment here at Addison today. The gym was packed with students and staff, and the excitement was a different level. As the races began, students cheered for every competitor—chanting 'USA, USA!' even when there wasn't an American racing…”

— Joel Dziedzic, Principal, Addison Elementary School

“So proud of him! I was probably more nervous than he was. He is a generational talent.”

— Dan Jansen, Olympic Gold Medalist

What’s next

Stolz will next compete in the men's 500m event on Saturday, February 14th. The pairings for that race have not yet been released.

The takeaway

Jordan Stolz's gold medal victory in the 1000m event at the 2026 Winter Olympics is a landmark achievement for the young speedskater from Wisconsin, cementing his status as a rising star in the sport and inspiring his hometown community. His powerful finishing kick and record-breaking performance have captured the nation's attention and could help grow the popularity of speedskating in the United States.