Francesca Lollobrigida: The Golden Mother of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games
MILAN, 21 February 2026 — As the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics approach their final weekend, one name has become synonymous with Italian sporting excellence and personal resilience: Francesca Lollobrigida. The 35-year-old speed skater has not only dominated the ice at her home Games but has also rewritten the history books for Italian winter sports, proving that the transition from motherhood back to elite competition can lead to the highest step of the podium.
A Historic Birthday Gold in Milan
The highlight of the Games for the host nation occurred on 7 February 2026, when Lollobrigida celebrated her 35th birthday in spectacular fashion. Competing in the women’s 3,000-metre event, she delivered a masterclass in pacing and power, smashing the Olympic record to secure Italy’s first gold medal of these Games. She bested Norway’s Ragne Wiklund and Canada’s Valérie Maltais to claim the title, an emotional victory that sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
Dominance Across Distances
Lollobrigida’s success in Milan was not limited to a single race. Following her 3,000m triumph, she continued her golden run by winning the 5,000-metre event, cementing her status as the queen of long-distance speed skating. While she faced a tougher challenge in the 1,500-metre race on Friday, 20 February—finishing thirteenth—her overall medal haul has already established her as one of the most successful Italian Winter Olympians of all time.
Recent Results at Milano-Cortina 2026
| Event | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3,000 Metres | Gold Medal | New Olympic Record; Won on her 35th birthday |
| 5,000 Metres | Gold Medal | Second gold of the 2026 Games |
| 1,500 Metres | 13th Place | Competed on 20 February 2026 |
| Mass Start | Silver Medal | Finished behind Marijke Groenewoud (Netherlands) |
From Inline Skating to Olympic Glory
Lollobrigida’s journey to the top of the ice skating world is unique. Before becoming an Olympic champion on blades, she was a titan of the roller world. Between 2012 and 2019, she was a 15-time World Champion in inline speed skating. Her transition to the ice was solidified during the 2014 Sochi Games, and she later gained international fame by winning silver and bronze medals at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.
The Motherhood Comeback
Perhaps the most discussed aspect of Lollobrigida’s 2026 campaign has been her return to the sport after becoming a mother. Her ability to balance the rigours of elite training with parenthood has served as an inspiration throughout Italy. Media coverage during the Games has frequently highlighted her “super-mom” status, noting that her physical peak has coincided with this new chapter in her personal life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gold medals did Francesca Lollobrigida win in 2026?
As of 21 February 2026, Francesca Lollobrigida has won two gold medals (3,000m and 5,000m) and one silver medal (Mass Start) at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics.
What is Francesca Lollobrigida’s height and profession?
She stands at 168 cm tall. Professionally, she is an Armed Forces Athlete, representing the Italian authorities in international competitions.
Is she related to the actress Gina Lollobrigida?
Yes, Francesca is the great-niece of the legendary Italian film icon Gina Lollobrigida, who passed away in 2023. Francesca has often spoken about carrying the pride of the Lollobrigida name into the sporting arena.
What records does she hold?
In addition to her new Olympic record in the 3,000m set in February 2026, she holds over 25 Italian national records across various distances, including the fastest Italian time in the 1,500m (1:54.00).