Italy Wins First Gold at Home Olympics 2026

Italy claimed its first gold medal at the home Olympic Games of 2026 on the very first day of competition. The heroine of the tournament was Francesca Lollobrigida, who produced a sensational victory in the women’s 3000 meters speed skating event.

The triumph was truly special: Lollobrigida celebrated Olympic gold on her 35th birthday, setting an Olympic record of 3:54.28. Previously, her Olympic achievements included only a silver and a bronze medal from Beijing 2022, making this gold the first of her career.

Moreover, this is the first Olympic gold medal ever won by an Italian female speed skater at any distance. Lollobrigida’s success became a landmark moment for the host nation’s team.

3000 meters, women (speed skating)

1. Francesca Lollobrigida (Italy) — 3:54.28 (Olympic record)
2. Ragne Wiklund (Norway) — 3:56.54
3. Valerie Maltais (Canada) — 3:58.12
4. Joy Beune (Netherlands)
5. Isabelle Weidemann (Canada)

Earlier on the same day at the 2026 Olympics, the Italian team had already added silver and bronze medals in downhill skiing, while Lollobrigida’s gold allowed the hosts to climb to the top step of the podium for the first time.