Florence Brunelle and Canada’s Olympic Dreams at Milan Cortina 2026
Published: February 14, 2026 at 6:21PM EST
MILAN (AP) – The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics have been a stage for incredible performances, and Canada’s short track speed skating team is making its mark. While all eyes were on the thrilling races, the story of Florence Brunelle, a rising star for Canada, is capturing the hearts of fans. Though not directly involved in today’s events, her potential and dedication are a key part of the Canadian team’s narrative.
Van ‘t Wout’s Golden Run
Dutch short track speedskating star Jens van ’t Wout is experiencing a moment of triumph. He secured his second Olympic gold medal on Saturday night in the 1,500 meters, following his victory in the 1,000 meters two days prior at the Milan Cortina Games. Van ’t Wout’s journey is particularly inspiring; he sports a gold tooth, a reminder of a skating accident seven years ago.
“Getting the golden tooth for me was a special moment, because after my accident I did have a little bit of time to decide if I dared to continue with the sport,” he shared, reflecting on the collision that resulted in lost teeth and a scar on his right cheek. “Now, getting these gold medals and having a golden tooth, it’s just a nice connection.”
The Podium Finish
South Korea’s Daeheon Hwang claimed the silver medal, while Roberts Kruzbergs of Latvia took bronze. Canadian short track star William Dandjinou faced a challenging race, finishing fifth. Van ’t Wout crossed the finish line in 2 minutes, 12.219 seconds, immediately embracing his teammates and family in the stands at the Milano Ice Skating Arena. Hwang finished closely behind in 2:12.304.
The results were initially held for a penalty review, but the podium order remained unchanged.
A Strategic Victory
The 24-year-old van ’t Wout admitted he wasn’t brimming with confidence heading into the Games due to a less-than-stellar season. “I’m super, super pumped. I always dreamed to become an Olympic champion, but I never thought in my mind that I could win two distances,” he exclaimed.
An unusual circumstance – penalties in the semifinals advancing three skaters to the final – created a crowded field of nine, instead of the usual seven. Van ’t Wout, on the advice of a teammate, studied footage of Hwang’s winning 2022 Beijing final, adopting a similar tactic of staying in front. “I tried to maybe copy his tactic a little bit — stay in the front. I have no idea how it worked but it worked. That’s the beauty of short track,” he said.
Canada’s Determination
Canada, still seeking its first gold medal of the Games, saw high hopes rest on William Dandjinou. Despite his disappointment, Dandjinou remained resolute. “I only have one thing to say — one day I will be an Olympic champion,” he declared. “Mark my words.” Dandjinou, the reigning 1,500 meters world champion, also missed the podium in the 1,000 meters.
A Valentine’s Day Sacrifice
Van ’t Wout acknowledged the sacrifice of spending Valentine’s Day away from his girlfriend. “I gave some flowers to my girlfriend, but I couldn’t do much, and I’m pretty sure it’s almost (midnight), so I think it was probably the worst Valentine’s Day for her.”
As the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics continue, the spotlight remains on athletes like Florence Brunelle and Jens van ’t Wout, showcasing the dedication, resilience, and thrilling competition that define the Olympic spirit. Canada looks forward to continued success and the potential for more medals in the days to come.
Learn more about the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: AP Olympics
