Dutch Speed Skater Faces Backlash Over Private Jet Travel to Winter Games
Dutch speed-skating star Jutta Leerdam is facing significant criticism and being labeled a "diva" after she opted to travel to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina via private jet. The athlete, who is engaged to YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, shared several Instagram photos from her flight on Sunday, sparking a wave of negative reactions from fans and fellow athletes alike.
Instagram Post Sparks Controversy
Leerdam posted a series of snaps on her Instagram account with the caption "Off to Milano," showing her and friends celebrating aboard a private plane. The aircraft was decorated with orange flags featuring the Olympic rings and the phrase "Success Jutta" written prominently. In the images, the crew can be seen enjoying custom-made cupcakes and a variety of salads, including tuna, steak, and shrimp options. Several champagne glasses were also visible throughout the cabin, adding to the luxurious atmosphere.
The post quickly drew ire from many who viewed it as an excessive and arrogant display, especially given that most Olympic athletes travel with their national teams. Critics argued that such behavior contradicts the spirit of teamwork and humility often associated with the Games.
Criticism from Dutch Soccer Legend
One of the most vocal critics was famed Dutch soccer player Johan Derksen, who did not hold back in his assessment of Leerdam's actions. According to reports from the Daily Mail, Derksen slammed the speed skater for her perceived arrogance and lavish lifestyle.
"(Leerdam) should want it of her own accord. She's already living like a millionaire, with private jets and everything," Derksen said. He added, "Her behaviour is horrible to me, like that of a diva. If I were her coach, I wouldn't tolerate that. Gradually the whole of the Netherlands is starting to get a bit fed up with her behaviour."
Social Media Reactions
The backlash extended to social media, where many Instagram users commented directly on Leerdam's post to express their disapproval. Common themes included accusations of arrogance and a lack of team spirit.
- One user commented, "Oh Jutta, you don't understand so little about life yet. A private flight?! What do you mean 'team' Holland?"
- Another replied, "Just act normal. Just travel with the team. What an arrogant display this is."
- A third user posted, "Private jet and chef? Seems normal for a freaking speed skater. It is actually laughable."
These comments highlight a broader sentiment that Leerdam's choice to travel separately from her team was seen as a disregard for Olympic camaraderie and a focus on personal luxury.
Leerdam's Olympic Background and Response
Despite the criticism, Leerdam appears unfazed and has continued her preparations for the Games. She has already completed several training runs and has posted updates from Milan, indicating her focus remains on competition. This marks her second Olympic appearance; she won a silver medal in the 1,000 metres at the 2022 Beijing Games and is now aiming for gold in both the 500-metre and 1,000-metre races in Milano-Cortina.
Leerdam, a native of 's-Gravenzande in the Netherlands, has been in a high-profile relationship with Jake Paul since 2023, and the couple got engaged last year. Paul showed his support by commenting "Time to shine" on her Instagram post, though it is unclear if he will be in Italy to cheer her on in person.
The controversy raises questions about the balance between personal branding and team ethics in modern sports, particularly as athletes increasingly use social media to share their journeys. While some view Leerdam's actions as a harmless celebration, others see it as a departure from Olympic values, sparking a debate that extends beyond the rink.
