MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin — Speedskating holds great importance in the Netherlands, a fact that once helped Jordan Stolz escape a parking ticket. However, back in his home country, the sport doesn’t receive the same level of attention. “Nobody’s swarming you at Pick ‘n Save,” joked Bob Corby, Stolz’s coach. But that may all change in the near future.
At just 20 years old, Stolz has been dominating the speedskating scene, winning three races at each of the last two single-distance world championships. He made history by becoming the youngest allround champion since Eric Heiden. Stolz’s impressive performance includes a second-place finish in the 500 meters, ending his World Cup winning streak at 22 races, the most ever for a male speedskater.
With his extraordinary talent, Stolz is on track to join the ranks of the biggest stars at the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympics, scheduled for Feb. 6-22, 2026, in northern Italy. “I think I can handle it,” Stolz expressed confidently, referring to the potential spotlight that awaits him.
Stolz’s journey in speedskating began after being inspired by the 2010 Olympics. He started training on a pond in his family’s backyard in Kewaskum, near Milwaukee, where his parents would drive him 45 minutes to the Pettit National Ice Center for training sessions. Under the guidance of coach Bob Corby, a seasoned figure in speedskating who has trained Olympic champions, Stolz’s talent blossomed.
Despite his young age of 14, Stolz displayed remarkable potential from the start. His dedication to training and natural talent impressed those around him. Foreign coaches were secretly in awe of his performances, recognizing his immense potential.
Stolz quickly rose through the ranks, securing his first senior title at just 16 in the 500 meters at the 2021 U.S. championships. He continued to excel, earning medals at senior World Cups and even representing the United States at the Beijing Olympics. Stolz’s success continued to soar as he set new records and became the youngest man to win an individual World Cup race.
His remarkable achievements culminated in winning multiple titles at world championships, solidifying his status as a rising star in speedskating. Stolz’s dedication to training and his natural talent have positioned him as a force to be reckoned with in the sport, with eyes now on the upcoming Olympics and the potential for further success on the world stage.
Jordan Stolz is having an exceptional year in speedskating. He has been on a winning streak, dominating his races with impressive results. Winning his first six 500-meter races and the first four races at 1,000 and 1,500 meters, Stolz has shown unparalleled skill and determination. Even his second-place finish by a mere 0.05 seconds on Sunday did not diminish his outstanding performance, especially considering he had won three races in the preceding two days.
Stolz’s coach, Corby, acknowledged the pressure that comes with such immediate success but praised Stolz for remaining level-headed and focused on his training. With the support and guidance of his coach, Stolz seems well-equipped to handle the high expectations placed on him.
Despite his humility, Stolz is aware of the growing attention directed towards him. Signing with Octagon and Janey Miller, agents who have represented renowned athletes like Simone Biles and Apolo Anton Ohno, indicates a shift towards a more prominent presence in the sports world for Stolz. The prospect of securing valuable sponsors leading up to the Olympics excites Stolz, who maintains a lighthearted approach while expressing his determination not to disappoint.
Stolz’s potential rise to Olympic stardom could not only change his life but also revolutionize the sport of speedskating in the United States. Often overshadowed by more mainstream sports, the exposure Stolz could bring to speedskating through his success might inspire young athletes to pursue the sport. The recent World Cup event at the Pettit Center in Milwaukee, which Stolz’s presence helped secure, drew enthusiastic crowds and showcased the impact he can have on the sport’s popularity.
As Stolz garners increasing attention, his mentor Shani Davis observes from the sidelines, offering guidance and support. Davis, a two-time Olympic champion, recognizes the potential in Stolz and the transformative effect his success could have on speedskating. Drawing from his own experiences as a young phenom, Davis sees Stolz as a frontrunner who can elevate the sport and capture the hearts of fans leading up to the upcoming Games.
The journey ahead for Stolz is filled with promise and anticipation, with the potential to make a lasting impact on the sport and inspire a new generation of speedskaters. As the world awaits his next triumphs, the spotlight on Stolz continues to grow brighter, setting the stage for a remarkable chapter in his athletic career.
