nuSep 28, 2026, 14:47

Former top speed skater Irene Schouten expecting second child: 'So happy and grateful'

Former professional speed skater Irene Schouten has announced she is pregnant with her second child. The news follows a difficult year for the family, as their first-born son Dirk recently recovered from a rare genetic condition.

Former elite speed skater Irene Schouten has announced that she is expecting her second child with her husband, Dirkjan Mak. The couple shared the happy news on Instagram through a post featuring their first child, Dirk, who was born in December 2024. The announcement highlighted their excitement as they prepare to welcome the new addition to their family.

The couple previously navigated a challenging period after their son Dirk was diagnosed with a rare genetic mutation just weeks after his birth. Following several emergency hospitalizations, Schouten recently shared that his condition has improved significantly and he no longer requires medication or suffers from seizures. Schouten, one of the most decorated Dutch skaters in history with three Olympic gold medals, retired from professional competition in 2024. Her announcement received widespread well-wishes from fellow athletes across the sporting community.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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