ISU Speed Skating World Cup at Utah Olympic Oval Sets Stage for 2026 Winter Games
Speed skaters from around the world gathered at the Utah Olympic Oval in Kearns for the ISU Speed Skating World Cup, the only U.S. stop before the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Games. Athletes from 34 countries competed for their chance to qualify for the upcoming games, creating an exciting atmosphere for spectators like Don Lehman, who traveled from Chicago to support his grandson.
Lehman was there to cheer on the U.S. men's team pursuit trio, which included his grandson, Emery Lehman, along with Casey Dawson and Ethan Cepuran. The team made history by breaking the world record, winning the event in three minutes and 32.49 seconds, improving upon their previous time of 3:33:66 set last January.
The ISU Speed Skating World Cup is an annual series of speed skating competitions that has been held since 1984. These competitions, which take place during the winter season, provide athletes with the opportunity to qualify for the 2026 Olympics in Milano Cortina.
Jeff Robbins, president and CEO of the Utah Sports Commission, highlighted the significance of hosting the ISU Speed Skating World Cup in Utah, emphasizing the state's commitment to its Olympic legacy and providing a top-notch venue for athletes on their journey to the 2026 Winter Games.
For families like the Lehmans, the event was a memorable experience that they will cherish. Don Lehman expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in the competition, especially praising his grandson and the U.S. team for their outstanding performance. The ISU Speed Skating World Cup showcased the best of winter sports and set the stage for an exciting lead-up to the 2026 Winter Games in Italy.