Valérie Maltais, a Canadian speedskater, won the bronze medal in the women’s 3,000-meter race at the Milan-Cortina Olympic Winter Games, which was Canada’s first medal at these Games. The competition saw Maltais racing closely against Italy's Francesca Lollobrigida, who ultimately claimed gold. The duel exemplified the competitive spirit of the event as both athletes showed great sportsmanship after the race, exchanging accolades.

This bronze adds to Maltais's impressive Olympic resume, making it her third Olympic medal. Her previous accolades include a gold medal from the 2022 Beijing Olympics, where she excelled in the team pursuit alongside teammates Isabelle Weidemann and Ivanie Blondin, and a silver medal from the Sochi 2014 Games as part of the relay team in short track racing. This event in Milan holds special significance for Maltais as it marks her fifth and final Olympic appearance.

During the race, Maltais's performance was closely followed, with spectators captivated by the tight competition. While she succeeded in earning a podium finish, fellow Canadian skater Weidemann finished fifth, and first-time Olympian Laura Hall from British Columbia also participated but did not medal. The results of this event reflect Canada's ongoing presence in speed skating, and Maltais's legacy as a decorated athlete continues to inspire future generations of skaters.