On Tuesday, March 3, Olympic short track champion Friso Emons was honored at the Ireen Wüst Ice Rink. Mayor Gräper-van Koolwijk, alderman Maarten van Asten (Sports), Ice Club Tilburg, and ShortTrack Brabant paid tribute to him for his exceptional Olympic achievement.
Tilburg native Friso Emons won gold in the 5,000-meter relay with the Dutch short track team at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. This achievement was celebrated in Tilburg with visible joy and pride.
After the official ceremony, hundreds of attendees took to the ice for photos, autographs, and personal congratulations. The Ireen Wüst Ice Rink was free for recreational skaters, allowing enthusiasts to meet their idol and experience the sport themselves.
Standing Ovation
Later that evening, Emons was again celebrated in a sold-out IJssportcentrum Tilburg before the Tilburg Trappers game. The audience gave him a standing ovation, and players and staff congratulated him personally.
“After the bubble in Milan and the tribute at the king’s palace, it was very special to return to my own city Tilburg and see so many people come to the tribute at the Ireen Wüst Ice Rink. The standing ovation I received later at the IJssportcentrum was unexpected. It was an incredibly special evening for me, and I enjoyed it immensely!” said Emons.
Moment of Pride for Tilburg
The large turnout and warm atmosphere during the tribute showed how deeply Tilburg shares in Emons’ Olympic achievement. Mayor Gräper-van Koolwijk emphasized the significance of his victory for the city: “Friso shows what is possible when talent, perseverance, and joy in sport come together. His Olympic title is not only a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for our entire city.”
Source of Inspiration
“Friso is an inspiration for young athletes in Tilburg. His success shows how strong our sports community is and how important it is to continue supporting talent,” said Maarten van Asten, alderman for Sports. Ice clubs have seen membership increase following the successful Olympics. Emons, who started as a young skater at Ice Club Tilburg, hopes the clubs will continue to receive many registrations. “This way, the next generation of short trackers can one day do the same as I did with my team. But I’m not thinking about stopping yet!”