Canadian Speedskaters Earn Silver in Thrilling Olympic Mixed Relay
Canada has secured its first silver medal at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, thanks to a stellar performance by the national short-track speedskating mixed team relay. The achievement came on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the Milano Ice Skating Arena, where the Canadian squad demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork against fierce international competition.
Meet the Medal-Winning Team
The four-person Canadian team was composed of talented athletes from across the country. William Dandjinou represented Montreal, while Félix Roussel and Kim Boutin both hail from Sherbrooke. Courtney Sarault of Moncton, New Brunswick, completed the roster. Their collective effort propelled Canada to the podium in one of the Olympics' most dynamic and unpredictable events.
The Podium Finish
In the final standings, Italy claimed the gold medal, with Canada taking silver and Belgium earning bronze. The mixed team relay in short-track speedskating is renowned for its intensity and excitement, as teams of four skaters compete on a tight oval rink. The event involves strategic pushes and transitions between teammates, often leading to dramatic moments and high-stakes racing.
Navigating a Challenging Competition
The path to silver was not without its obstacles. Short-track speedskating is prone to crashes and falls due to the fast pace and close proximity of skaters on the ice. Any mishap can severely impact a team's time or lead to elimination. However, the Canadian team, affectionately nicknamed the Canadian Ice Maples, entered the competition as a strong contender based on their impressive performances throughout the season.
Qualification and Preliminary Rounds
During the Tuesday morning qualification rounds, Canadian skaters generally excelled, securing top positions with ease. In the women's 500-metre race, Courtney Sarault and Kim Boutin dominated their competitors, while Florence Brunelle finished second in her round. The men's 1,000-metre race saw William Dandjinou and Felix Roussel glide smoothly to first place, although Steven Dubois experienced a fall while attempting to pass a British opponent.
Key Moments in the Quarterfinals and Semifinals
The quarterfinals featured a nail-biting race against China, with the Chinese team nearly overtaking Canada near the end. However, Dandjinou executed a last-moment slide to snatch victory for Canada. In the semifinals, the team continued to dominate, with Sarault skillfully avoiding a potential crash involving a U.S. skater. The electric crowd at the arena fueled the athletes' performances, adding to the event's thrilling atmosphere.
Celebrating Canadian Excellence
This silver medal highlights the dedication and prowess of Canada's short-track speedskating program, particularly showcasing the contributions of athletes from Quebec and Atlantic Canada. As the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics progress, this achievement sets a positive tone for Team Canada, inspiring fans and future athletes alike.
