Canada claims team Crystal Globe, Dandjinou wins 1,000m at short track World Tour finale in Milan
Canadian speed skater William Dandjinou concluded his dominant short track World Tour season with another gold medal in Milan, Italy. The 23-year-old rising star clocked an impressive time of one minute 23.025 seconds in the men’s 1,000 metres, beating out Italian favourite Pietro Sighel and South Korea’s Jang Sung-woo to claim his eighth individual victory of the season.
Dandjinou, the reigning world champion in the distance, made history by becoming Canada’s first-ever overall Crystal Globe winner. His remarkable performance throughout the season earned him a well-deserved spot in the record books. With his eyes set on making his Olympic debut at Milano Cortina 2026, Dandjinou’s success on the track has solidified his status as a top contender in the sport.
In addition to Dandjinou’s individual achievements, Canada also secured the team Crystal Globe at the finale in Milan. The Ice Maples, as they are known, topped the standings with a total of 8,731 points, outscoring their closest competitors from the Netherlands by a significant margin. The Canadian team’s outstanding performance throughout the season, which included a record-breaking 21 gold medals, was a testament to their dedication and talent.
The Canadian short track speed skaters continued to shine on the final day of competition, winning silver medals in both the men’s 5,000m relay and the 2,000m mixed team relay. The team’s success was further highlighted by their strong finishes in the individual events, with athletes like Danaé Blais and Florence Brunelle making their mark on the international stage.
Reflecting on their achievements, Canadian coach Marc Gagnon emphasized the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in the team’s success. By working together and supporting each other, the Canadian skaters were able to create a positive environment that fueled their momentum throughout the season.
As the short track world championships approach in March, the Canadian team is poised to continue their winning ways and build on their success in Milan. With talented skaters like William Dandjinou leading the charge, Canada’s presence on the international stage is stronger than ever.
By leveraging their team spirit and individual talent, the Canadian short track speed skating team has solidified their status as a force to be reckoned with in the sport. As they set their sights on future competitions, including the upcoming world championships in Beijing, the Ice Maples are determined to continue their winning streak and make their mark on the global stage.
