Francesca Lollobrigida secured her second Olympic gold medal at Milano Cortina 2026, adding to Italy's growing success in speed skating on home ice.
The Italian speed skater delivered another commanding performance at the Milano Cortina Olympics, claiming gold and continuing her remarkable run at these Games. Speaking after her victory, Lollobrigida reflected on the emotional journey and the weight of competing at a home Olympics.
"It wasn't easy, because all the emotion, everything goes through your head," Lollobrigida said in her post-race interview. "Maybe now with this one it's a bit more... I wanted to race, I got it out of my system." The 33-year-old from Rome has proven herself as one of Italy's standout performers at these Winter Games, thriving under the pressure of home expectations.
Looking Ahead to the 1500m
With two gold medals already secured, Lollobrigida's focus now shifts to the 1500m event, where she acknowledged the stakes are different. "Now there are a few days before the 1500m, where obviously I'm based on the medal there," she explained. "And more preparation for the Mass Start."
The Mass Start presents a unique challenge compared to individual time trial events. "The Mass Start is a group race, so it's also a bit different," Lollobrigida noted, suggesting a tactical shift will be required for that competition.
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Beyond her own achievements, Lollobrigida took time to recognize her teammate Federica, whose influence has been significant. "I really have to congratulate Federica, because she also motivated me a lot," Lollobrigida said. "She is another example of precisely that you must not give up. What you believe is impossible, or what others think is impossible, you can make it possible."
The mutual support within the Italian speed skating team has been evident throughout Milano Cortina 2026. Lollobrigida's praise for her teammate highlights the collective spirit driving Italy's success on the ice. "She was truly great. And I believe the facts speak for themselves, so nothing more to say," she concluded.
With the 1500m and Mass Start still to come, Lollobrigida's Olympic campaign continues. For now, she's savoring the moment: "Now I'm enjoying these two golds."
