Olympic Highlights: From Ice Flips to Speed Records

Malinin Electrifies Crowd with Prohibited Backflip

Ilia Malinin executed a backflip during his Olympic skates, eliciting a strong crowd reaction. Malinin commented on the effect of the crowd's excitement following the move, noting an "incredible roar-feeling" in the environment.

The backflip was previously prohibited in competition from the late 1970s until 2024.

Leerdam Claims Gold in 1000m Speedskating

The women's 1000-meter long-track speedskating race featured Team USA athletes Brittney Bowe and Erin Jackson. Dutch skater Jutta Leerdam secured the gold medal, establishing a new Olympic record. Leerdam's fiancé, American influencer and boxer Jake Paul, was in attendance.

Inside the Milano Speed Skating Stadium

The Milano Speed Skating Stadium, approximately one mile from the closest metro stop, features long moving walkways for pedestrian access. Speedskating races, such as the 1,000-meter event (2.5 laps), are quick. The speedskating venue was observed to be warmer than the figure skating venue. During time trials, multiple skaters warm up in lanes adjacent to those racing, a detail not always apparent from television broadcasts.

Dominant Dutch Presence in the Stands

Observations from the crowd indicated a strong national presence. Approximately 80% of attendees wore orange, and support for Dutch skaters was audibly more pronounced compared to the applause for U.S. competitors. A notable portion of the stands reacted following Leerdam's final lap.