Jutta Leerdam has sparked outrage after she chose to fly to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan on a private jet, rather than joining her fellow Dutch team members.
The 27-year-old Dutch speed-skating sensation, who is engaged to YouTube boxing star Jake Paul, posted several photos and videos on Instagram showing off her luxurious flight.
One video showed her snacking on custom-made cupcakes, which had “Success Jutta” written in Dutch above the logo of the Olympic rings, while glasses of champagne sat around the cabin.
The backlash was swift, with many expressing anger over what they saw as an arrogant display of wealth, especially given the team-oriented nature of the Olympics.
"Just act normal. Just travel with the team. What an arrogant display this is," one user commented (translated from Dutch to English).
Another chimed in: "As a Team NL member, flying to a sporting event in your private jet, eating sushi with your friends? That doesn’t reflect well, in my opinion."
Others called it an “embarrassing and decadent arrival,” and a user chiming in: “It’s rather arrogant to travel to Milan in a private jet and put yourself above @teamnl, isn’t it?”
The controversy also sparked discussions about the environmental impact of private jet travel, with some questioning Leerdam’s decision in light of climate concerns.
"Such a private jet really sets a bad example for your fans. There is still less and less natural ice due to the climate crisis," a user said. “Those private flights are wonderful. The more pollution, the better…” a second remarked.
Johan Derksen Slams Leerdam’s "Diva" Behavior
The most vocal critic has been Johan Derksen, a former Dutch soccer player turned sports pundit.
He didn’t hold back in his condemnation of the athlete's behavior, calling her actions “horrible” and likening them to those of a "diva".
"She should want it of her own accord. She’s already living like a millionaire, with private jets and everything," Derksen fumed, per The Sun. "Her behavior is horrible to me, like that of a diva. If I were her coach, I wouldn’t tolerate that."
He also mentioned that the people of the Netherlands are "starting to get a bit fed up with her behavior".
Leerdam's Success and Future in the Winter Olympics
Despite the criticism, Leerdam remains a dominant figure in her sport. The two-time Olympian, who won a silver medal in the women’s 1000 meters at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, is now focused on the 2026 Milano-Cortina Games.
Leerdam is currently the world’s second-ranked speed skater and will compete in both the 1000m and 500m events, with the 1000m race scheduled for February 9 and the 500m on February 15.
Her qualification for the Winter Olympics wasn’t without its struggles, as in December 2025, she suffered a catastrophic crash during the Olympic trials, nearly ruining her chances to qualify.
However, she managed to bounce back and qualify for the Games through her performance in the 500m, with the Dutch selection committee granting her a spot in the 1000m event as well.
"I'm so grateful that everything worked out," the speed-skater wrote on Instagram. “What makes me happiest is that this decision doesn’t affect any other woman in the process.”