Overview
- Leerdam did not attend the Milan opening ceremony, posting that she watched the event from her accommodation.
- She traveled to Italy on a private jet and shared images of personalized in-flight displays and treats, drawing rebukes from Dutch pundit Johan Derksen and critical social-media comments.
- The KNSB confirmed her places in the 1000m and 500m, granting the contested 1000m spot after her December fall at trials and strong 500m results.
- Her 1000m event is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 9 at 11:30 a.m. ET, with the 500m slated for Sunday, Feb. 15 at 11:03 a.m. ET.
- Leerdam enters as a prominent medal contender with a large online following and heightened attention linked to her engagement to Jake Paul, with some peers praising the added spotlight on speed skating.