The Provincial Council of Friesland officially backs the plan to bring the 2030 Olympic speed skating tournament to the Thialf stadium. Friesland’s politicians passed a proposal calling on the provincial executive to support a broad lobby for the iconic venue. Furthermore, the Council remains open to providing a financial contribution to the project.
According to provincial factions, hosting the Olympic tournament offers Friesland a unique chance to profile itself internationally. Politicians also believe the event would provide a significant economic boost to Heerenveen. “We could put Friesland on the map so incredibly beautifully,” stated Council member Gerben van der Mei of the Fryske Nasjonale Partij (FNP).
The upcoming Winter Olympics will take place in the French Alps. However, because that region lacks a suitable indoor speed skating rink, organisers are considering Heerenveen and Turin, Italy, as alternative venues. The French authorities will likely announce their final choice this summer. Dutch representatives already submitted detailed information regarding their candidacy during the start of the Winter Games in Milan.
As shareholders of the stadium, both the province and the municipality of Heerenveen are actively participating in the Olympic lobby. Despite this enthusiasm, several Council members emphasised that a financial contribution does not constitute a “blank cheque”. Karin van der Velde-Ronda of the CDA noted that because this is a national and international event, other parties must also share the costs. Consequently, the province expects the national government to provide financial support as well.
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