South Korea win relay gold as Fontana makes Italian Olympic history
South Korea have claimed gold in the women’s 3000m relay while Arianna Fontana became Italy’s most decorated Olympian by securing silver.
The Korean quartet crossed the line first in a dramatic conclusion to the event on day 12 of the 2026 Winter Games.
It marks a return to the top step of the podium for the Asian nation, reasserting their traditional dominance in the discipline.
Fontana stands alone
While South Korea celebrated victory, the spotlight shone equally on the Italian team in second place.
The result secured a historic 14th Olympic medal for short track legend Arianna Fontana.
This latest podium finish means the veteran skater has now surpassed all compatriots to become the most decorated Italian in Olympic history.
It extends a remarkable career for the ‘Blonde Angel’, who has remained a fixture at the pinnacle of the sport for nearly two decades.
Drama on the ice
The final was a tense affair that saw the major nations battling for position throughout the 27 laps.
Ultimately, the Koreans held their nerve in the closing stages to deny the host nation a home gold.
The victory adds another chapter to South Korea’s illustrious record in the women’s relay event.