Team USA Secures Silver in Men’s Team Pursuit Speedskating at 2026 Winter Olympics
MILAN, Italy — In a thrilling showdown on the ice, Team USA’s men’s speedskating squad captured the silver medal in the team pursuit event at the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan Cortina. The American trio of Ethan Cepuran, Casey Dawson, and Emery Lehman clocked a time of 3:43.71, finishing just behind Italy’s gold-winning team, which completed the race in 3:39.20.
The race unfolded with the U.S. team starting strong, matching strides with the Italian squad early on. However, as the laps progressed, Italy’s team, featuring Davide Ghiotto, Andrea Giovannini, and Michele Malfatti, surged ahead in the final laps to clinch the top podium spot. This silver medal marks a significant achievement for the Americans, who demonstrated remarkable teamwork and endurance throughout the competition.
This is the second Olympic team pursuit medal for Cepuran, Dawson, and Lehman, who previously competed together at the 2022 Beijing Olympics alongside Joey Matia. The trio also set a world record in the team pursuit event in November 2025, with an astonishing time of 3:32.49, underscoring their status as elite contenders in the sport.
The men’s team pursuit speedskating event is a test of both speed and coordination, requiring teams of three skaters to work in unison over a distance of 8 laps. The race demands strategic pacing and seamless exchanges, as the final time is recorded when the last skater crosses the finish line. The United States’ performance in Milan reflects the country’s ongoing commitment to excellence in winter sports and the development of top-tier athletes.
Speedskating remains a highlight of the Winter Olympics, drawing global attention to the athletes’ agility and precision. The International Olympic Committee’s official website provides detailed results and background on the event, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in this fast-paced discipline. For more on the Olympic Games and updates on Team USA’s performances, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee offers comprehensive coverage.
The 2026 Milan Cortina Games have showcased a blend of seasoned athletes and rising stars, with the men’s team pursuit event exemplifying the spirit of competition and camaraderie. The Italian victory on home ice was celebrated by enthusiastic crowds, while the American silver medalists earned widespread respect for their tenacity and skill.
For those interested in the technical aspects of speedskating and Olympic event standards, the International Olympic Committee’s speedskating page provides extensive resources. Additionally, the U.S. Speedskating organization supports athletes through training and development programs, contributing to the successes seen at international competitions.
As the Winter Olympics continue, Team USA’s silver medal in the men’s team pursuit adds to the nation’s proud legacy in winter sports and sets a promising tone for future competitions.
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