Latvia's short track skater, Bērziņš, demonstrated a strategic approach in his seventh race of the competition, starting modestly behind his competitors. His patience paid off when two rival skaters collided, allowing him to overtake both and secure second place to advance into the quarter-finals, completing the distance in a time of 1 minute and 25.741 seconds. This tactical maneuvering highlights his competitive mindset and ability to seize opportunities during high-stakes races.

In a similar performance, Krūzbergs took a bold start in the last of the heats, immediately positioning himself in first place. Throughout the race, competitors frequently swapped positions, adding to the intensity of the event. Despite some contact during the race, Krūzbergs managed to finish third, but the judges decided to advance him as well after a review of the footage due to a foul committed by an American skater, showcasing the unpredictable nature of short track racing and its reliance on officiating.

The quarter-finals will only allow the top two skaters from each heat, along with four fastest third-place finishers, to qualify for the next stages of the competition. Medals for the 1000-meter events are set to be distributed on Thursday, heightening anticipation among competitors and fans alike looking forward to the thrilling conclusion of the short track events in the championships.