Hungarian Short Track Team Faces Olympic Challenge After Key Injury, Welcomes Korean Reinforcement
Budapest, Hungary – The Hungarian national short track speed skating team is navigating a significant setback ahead of the 2026 winter Olympics in Milan, following a devastating injury to team member Petra Jászapáti. Together, the team is bolstering its ranks with the addition of South Korean skater Moon Wonjun, aiming to maintain its competitive edge.
Jászapáti suffered a cruciate ligament tear three weeks ago, ruling her out of contention for the Milan Games. Head coach Ákos Bánhidi described the injury as “among the most painful” blows the team has faced, acknowledging Jászapáti’s potential for individual success and her crucial role in the relay team. “I don’t think we could have more trouble than this,” Bánhidi stated. The team is now focused on supporting Jászapáti’s recovery while simultaneously preparing for the challenges ahead.
A History of Success & Current Landscape
Hungary has emerged as a prominent force in short track speed skating, largely fueled by the success of the Liu brothers (Shaolin Sándor Liu and Shaoang Liu). The team has consistently secured medals at World Championships and delivered strong performances on the international stage. However, Bánhidi emphasized the inherent volatility of the sport, noting that success isn’t guaranteed even with top talent.He expressed concern that diminished results could lead to waning support, potentially jeopardizing the program’s future.
New Addition & Qualification Pathway
To mitigate the impact of Jászapáti’s absence and strengthen the team, Moon Wonjun will join the Hungarian training program in early September.He will participate in a test race on the first weekend of the month. Bánhidi highlighted the benefit of Wonjun’s experience with a similar training regimen in South Korea, stating, “You need to get used to it, you will have the opportunity to practice with your companions, but it is indeed also significant to be very strong, and you can do it in South Korea, as she is used to the type of workout.” The Belgian team has been utilizing the Hungarian practice ice rink since May, further contributing to the intensive training habitat.The road to Milan will be resolute through a series of four qualification events in October and November: two in Montreal,followed by competitions in Gdansk and Dordrecht. These races will determine which skaters will represent Hungary at the Olympics.
Olympic Qualification Outlook
Bánhidi expressed cautious optimism regarding the team’s chances. He believes securing a quota for the women’s relay team remains realistic despite Jászapáti’s injury. The team is aiming to qualify the maximum of three skaters per distance, acknowledging that achieving this goal will be more attainable on some distances than others. While the prospects for the men’s team are less certain, the addition of a strengthened Moon Wonjun offers a potential boost. The overarching goal is to “pinch” as many qualification spots as possible.
Key Takeaways:
Petra Jászapáti Injury: A cruciate ligament tear has ruled the skater out of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Moon Wonjun Joins Team: South Korean skater Moon Wonjun will train with the Hungarian team starting in September.
Qualification Events: Four qualification races in October/November will determine Olympic team selection.
Olympic Goals: Hungary aims to qualify for the women’s relay and secure as many individual quotas as possible.
* Program Sustainability: Coach Bánhidi stressed the importance of continued support for the program despite recent challenges.
