Synthetic ice in speed skating at the Olympics?

Answer 1

Synthetic ice has been explored as an alternative to traditional ice in speed skating, particularly for training purposes and events in warmer climates. It aims to provide a consistent skating surface while reducing the need for extensive refrigeration. However, concerns about performance differences and the authenticity of Olympic competition standards have led to debates regarding its use. The adoption of synthetic ice in Olympic speed skating events remains limited, with traditional ice still favored for its optimal performance characteristics.