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Stolz Falls Short in Mass Start; Bergsma Claims Gold

2/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Jordan Stolz, the American speedskater, finished fourth in the men's mass start, ending his bid for a third Olympic gold.
Jorrit Bergsma of the Netherlands won the mass start, becoming the oldest Olympic speedskating champion.
Stolz said the pack's reluctance to chase the leaders shaped his plan.
Despite the disappointment, Stolz reflected positively on his overall performance.

History

Historical Context

The 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics marked a significant moment in Olympic history, being the first held in a former Soviet state since the USSR's dissolution in 1991. The Games featured a record 98 events and saw the Netherlands dominate speedskating, winning 24 medals. However, they were also marred by allegations of a state-sponsored doping program, which later led to the stripping of 13 Russian medals.

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Story summary

Jordan Stolz, the American speedskater, finished fourth in the men's mass start, ending his bid for a third Olympic gold.
Jorrit Bergsma of the Netherlands won the mass start, becoming the oldest Olympic speedskating champion.
Stolz said the pack's reluctance to chase the leaders shaped his plan.
Despite the disappointment, Stolz reflected positively on his overall performance.

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