The Most Famous Speed Skater, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the speed skater you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 10, 2024 07:16

Speed skating has captivated audiences with its blend of agility, speed, and competitive spirit, featuring athletes who push the limits of physical endurance and skill. Given its global appeal, fans often debate who stands out as the most influential in the sport. A ranked list of famous speed skaters helps provide clarity and celebrates the achievements of these athletes, while allowing fans to engage directly with the history and impact of the sport. By participating in the ranking process, enthusiasts contribute to a dynamic list that reflects public opinion and recognition of talent. This interaction not only fosters a deeper connection between fans and the sport, but it also generates a comprehensive view of the figures who have shaped speed skating throughout the years. Voting and seeing real-time results can enhance appreciation for the sport and its key athletes.

Who Is the Most Famous Speed Skater?

1

41
votes
Noelle Neu (http://ohnozone.net) · CC BY-SA 3.0

Apolo Ohno

He is a retired American speed skater who won eight Olympic medals, including two golds. He is considered one of the greatest short track speed skaters in history.
Apolo Ohno in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous short-track speed skater
2

25
votes

UweFan · CC BY 3.0

Bonnie Blair

She is a retired American speed skater who won five Olympic gold medals in her career. She is the most decorated American female Winter Olympian.
3

20
votes

UweFan · CC BY 3.0

Eric Heiden

He is a retired American speed skater who won five gold medals at the 1980 Winter Olympics, setting four Olympic records and one world record in the process. He is considered one of the greatest speed skaters of all time.
4

47
votes

Bjarte Hetland · CC BY 2.5

Sven Kramer

He is a Dutch speed skater who has won three Olympic gold medals and numerous world championships. He is one of the most dominant long track speed skaters of all time.
5

26
votes

Ireen Wüst

She is a Dutch speed skater who has won five Olympic gold medals and numerous world championships. She is considered one of the greatest female long track speed skaters in history.
6

7
votes
McSmit · CC BY 2.5

Shani Davis

He is a retired American speed skater who won two Olympic gold medals and numerous world championships. He was the first black athlete to win an individual Winter Olympic gold medal.
Shani Davis in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous Winter Olympian
7

16
votes

C. Hill · CC BY 2.5

Johann Olav Koss

He is a retired Norwegian speed skater who won four Olympic gold medals and numerous world championships. He is also known for his philanthropic work through the organization Right to Play.
8

1
votes

Sandro Halank, Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Claudia Pechstein

She is a German speed skater who has won nine Olympic medals and numerous world championships. She is one of the most successful long track speed skaters in history.
9

8
votes

Republic of Korea · CC BY-SA 2.0

Lee Sang-hwa

She is a retired South Korean speed skater who won two Olympic gold medals and numerous world championships in the 500m event. She holds the current world record in the 500m.
10

8
votes

Ineke Vogel · CC BY 3.0

Dan Jansen

He is a retired American speed skater who won a gold medal at the 1994 Winter Olympics after years of heartbreak and disappointment at previous Olympics. He is also a world record holder in the 500m.

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Discussion

Ranking factors for famous speed skater

Olympic achievements

Consider the number of Olympic medals won, including gold, silver, and bronze. Also, consider the overall performance and dominance in Olympic events.
World championship titles

Take into consideration the number of World Championship titles won in various distances or overall championships. This indicates consistent success in international competitions.
World records

Consider if the speed skater holds or has held any world records. Breaking or setting records signifies exceptional performance and skill.
Longevity and consistency

Assess the skater's career longevity and consistency in performing at a high level. Consistent success over a sustained period indicates skill, talent, and dedication.
Achievements beyond speed skating

Consider any impact or recognition the skater has had beyond the sport, such as their influence on popular culture, community involvement, or contributions to promoting the sport.
Overall popularity and recognizability

Evaluate the skater's popularity and recognizability on a global scale. This can include factors such as social media following, endorsements, media coverage, and fan support.
Legacy and influence

Assess the skater's impact on the sport and influence on future generations of athletes. Consider if their techniques, strategies, or overall style have had a significant impact on the sport of speed skating.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous speed skater. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or speed skater is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2873 views
180 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each speed skater once every 24 hours. The rank of each speed skater is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous speed skater

Speed skating is a highly competitive and thrilling sport that requires a great deal of skill, endurance, and speed. It has a rich history dating back to the 19th century and has since become a highly popular sport around the world. Over the years, many incredible athletes have emerged in the field, each with their unique strengths and accomplishments. However, when it comes to determining who the most famous speed skater of all time is, opinions are divided. Some believe it is Eric Heiden, who won an unprecedented five gold medals at the 1980 Winter Olympics, while others argue it is the legendary Apolo Anton Ohno, who has won eight Olympic medals in total. Regardless of who holds the title, speed skating remains an exciting and highly competitive sport that continues to captivate fans worldwide.