American sprinter Mia Manganello secured America’s first individual long-distance medal at the 2026 Milan Cortina Games by securing a bronze.
The 36-year-old follows Canadian Olympian Ivanie Blondin, who won silver, and the Netherlands’ Marijke Groenewoud, who took gold.
The medal marks Manganello’s first individual Olympic podium after three games.
Speaking to reporters, Manganello emotionally said, “This is the perfect ending. I’ve been dreaming of this moment.”
Manganellos’ victory also gives the American women their first sprint medal at these Games after a series of near misses.
Previously, American skaters had placed fourth in the 1,000 meters, 1,500 meters and team pursuit, plus fifth in the 500 meters.
The Netherlands completed a series of mass start races, with Jorrit Bergsma taking home the gold in the men’s event earlier on Saturday.
At 40, Bergsma shocked the competition with a bold move on the third lap and took home his second Olympic gold medal.
The Netherlands finished the Milan Cortina Games with five gold medals in speed skating, the most of any country.
For Manganello, the bronze medal is the fourth medal for the USA in long track, the most the country has won at the Games.
