Openly gay speed skater Conor McDermott‑Mostowy qualifies for first Winter Olympics
Conor McDermott‑Mostowy has officially qualified for his first Winter Olympics after a commanding victory in the men’s 1000‑metre race at the 2026 U.S. Olympic Team Trials in Milwaukee. His winning time of 1:07.606 at the Pettit National Ice Center secured him a coveted quota place for the Milano‑Cortina Games this February.
The 26-year-old Washington, D.C. speed skater described a wave of relief as he awaited confirmation of his result, calling the moment “ecstatic” after seeing the green light that confirmed his Olympic debut.
McDermott‑Mostowy is also openly gay - a detail he has spoken about candidly in recent years. His visibility has made him a notable figure in winter sport, a space where openly LGBTQ+ male athletes remain comparatively rare. He has previously discussed the challenges of representation and the additional pressures faced by queer athletes striving for elite‑level success.
The 2025–2026 season has been a turning point for McDermott‑Mostowy. After standout performances in Salt Lake City and a gritty, last‑minute appearance in team pursuit racing in Japan, he entered trials with renewed confidence and international momentum. He has steadily climbed the world rankings and previously earned bronze and silver medals on the World Cup circuit earlier in the season.
In the weeks leading up to trials, McDermott‑Mostowy also added a World Cup silver medal to his résumé while competing with the U.S. team in Heerenveen, Netherlands. Speaking in December on What’s Brewing Wisconsin, he reflected on his Olympic ambitions and the significance of competing once again on Milwaukee ice, where the trials were held.
With the 1000‑metre event secured, he may still expand his programme: additional opportunities remain in the 500‑metre and 1500‑metre races, as well as possible relay selection, depending on final team decisions.
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