Story perspectives

Italy's Team Pursuit Wins Olympic Gold, Defeats U.S.

2/18/2026

Summary

Italy Claims Gold

Italy's Davide Ghiotto, Andrea Giovannini, and Michele Malfatti won the men's team pursuit gold medal at the Milan Cortina Olympics, finishing in 3:39.20.
The Italian team defeated U.S. world record holders Casey Dawson, Emery Lehman, and Ethan Cepuran by 4.5 seconds, marking Italy's first Olympic title in this event since 2006.
The U.S. team finished with a time of 3:43.71 after leading early but struggling in the final laps.
China won the bronze medal, narrowly beating the Netherlands.
In women's team pursuit, Canada secured gold, while Japan took bronze.

Summary

Lehman Reflects Defeat

Emery Lehman, a United States skater, reflected on the team's defeat at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics and contrasted it with an incident involving Russian skater Daniil Dldoshkin.
The United States team trained together for seven years and entered as favorites.
Italian skater Andrea Giovannini celebrated with a Steph Curry-inspired gesture, admiring the NBA.
The United States team left the rink exhausted, and Cepuran noted his need for rest.

History

Historical Context

Italy's men's speed skating team achieved a historic victory in the team pursuit at the 2006 Turin Olympics, winning gold with a time of 3:42.53. This triumph followed a significant shift in winter sports dynamics, as Italy challenged established powers like the U.S., who had trained for seven years. The event marked Italy's resurgence in winter sports, enhancing competitive rivalries.

1 of 3

Italy Claims Gold

Italy's Davide Ghiotto, Andrea Giovannini, and Michele Malfatti won the men's team pursuit gold medal at the Milan Cortina Olympics, finishing in 3:39.20.
The Italian team defeated U.S. world record holders Casey Dawson, Emery Lehman, and Ethan Cepuran by 4.5 seconds, marking Italy's first Olympic title in this event since 2006.
The U.S. team finished with a time of 3:43.71 after leading early but struggling in the final laps.
China won the bronze medal, narrowly beating the Netherlands.
In women's team pursuit, Canada secured gold, while Japan took bronze.

1 / 3