Milan, 10 February (LaPresse) – A positive debut for Italian flag bearer Arianna Fontana at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympics. The Olympic champion in speed skating advanced to the second round in the 500 metres with the second-fastest time in her heat, finishing in 42.668 behind Dutch skater Michelle Velzeboer. Chiara Betti also advanced to the next round, finishing second in her heat in 43.163, behind Dutch favourite Xandra Velzeboer in 42.417. Arianna Sighel, third in her heat with 53.960, was eliminated after an unfortunate fall caused by American Corinne Stoddard. The final stages of the 500 metres are scheduled for Thursday 12 February.
Milan-Cortina 2026, short track: Fontana and Betti advance, A. Sighel out
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