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Miho Takagi Sticks With Winning Formula Ahead of Milano Cortina Title Defense

An early skate at the Milan venue felt familiar, prompting a measured check on her form in the coming days.

Nov 22, 2025; Calgary, Alberta, CANADA; Miho Takagi of Japan competes in the women's 1500m during the ISU Speedskating World Cup at Calgary Olympic Oval. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The defending 1,000m champion said her approach remains unchanged, emphasizing quality work and maintaining peak condition.
  • After a brief session at Milano Speed Skating Stadium, she said the ice felt familiar and that she will judge her condition over the next few days as speed skating begins on February 7.
  • She carries momentum into the Games after topping the women's 1,500m at the 2025–26 ISU World Cup.
  • The 31-year-old enters her fourth Olympics with seven medals, including Beijing 2022 1,000m gold in a record 1:13.19.
  • She adopted a calculated build-up about 100 days out, using themed World Cup races to fine-tune pacing following preseason struggles.