When and where are the ISU European Short‑Track Championships 2026? The competition runs from January 16‑18, 2026 at the IJssportcentrum Tilburg in the Netherlands. It serves as the final pre‑Olympic test for Europe’s elite short‑track speed skaters before the Winter Games in Milan‑Cortina later that month.
Schedule Highlights
The three‑day program delivers nonstop action:
- Friday: Men’s 500 m heats kick off at 15:35 CET.
- Saturday: Early start at 13:35 CET with a packed slate of sprint and middle‑distance races.
- Sunday: 1500 m finals and the decisive relay events conclude the championships.
Why Tilburg Is a Crucial Test Site
Tilburg’s modern IJssportcentrum offers a world‑class ice surface and spectator capacity that mirrors Olympic conditions. Holding the event only two weeks before Milan‑Cortina allows athletes to fine‑tune starts, assess equipment, and lock in race strategies without the fatigue of long‑distance travel.
Key Athletes and Storylines
European short‑track powerhouses bring a mix of experience and emerging talent:
- Andrea Cassinelli (Italy) aims to convert World Cup consistency into a home‑nation gold medal.
- Corentin Liu (France) and Semion Elistratov (Russia, neutral flag) are expected to dictate pace with aggressive tactics.
- Laurence Nixon (Great Britain) seeks to capitalize on recent breakthroughs in the 1000 m.
- Nina Gleirscher (Germany) targets another podium finish after a strong World Championships performance.
The Dutch squad, traditionally dominant, will compete without star Suzanne Schulting, creating opportunities for rising skaters such as Jesse de Vries to make their mark.
Relay Drama
Team dynamics will be on display in both men’s and women’s relays. The Dutch men’s lineup must adapt after the star’s absence, while the women’s relay could face a surprise challenge from the Hungarian team, which has steadily climbed the rankings.
Implications for Olympic Selection
Results in Tilburg will heavily influence national team selections for Milan‑Cortina. Strong performances can secure limited Olympic slots, whereas a stumble may relegate athletes to reserve status. Coaches will also scrutinize tactical innovations—such as start‑position tweaks and blade‑curvature adjustments—to gain marginal gains for the Games.
Community Impact
Tilburg’s local authorities are leveraging the championships to boost community engagement. Schools plan field trips to the arena, and “Meet the Skaters” sessions aim to inspire the next generation of Dutch short‑track talent. The influx of European fans is also expected to provide a noticeable lift to the city’s hospitality sector.
Looking Ahead
As the opening whistle approaches, the atmosphere in Tilburg is electric. The European Short‑Track Championships will not only crown the continent’s best but also set the competitive tone for the forthcoming Winter Olympics. Every pass, overtaking move, and split‑second decision could reverberate in Milan‑Cortina, shaping the narrative of the 2026 Games.