In 1933, 1934 and 1935 the world championships speed skating comprised three distances. As the contests were not held under auspices of the ISU (Inteernational Skating Organization) the results are considered as 'unofficial'.

Although there was still no unanimity regarding the question whether speed skating for women should be stimulated or not, the ISU decided to organise 'official' World Championships at four distances as from 1936.

As a result of World War II no championships were held from 1940 till 1947.

In 1956 it was decided to replace the distance of 5000 m by a distance of 1500 m.

In 1960  speed skating for women became an Olympic wintersport as well.

From 1970 also European Championships speed skating were organised for women.

After five years European Championships for women were considered commercially unattractive and thus they were removed from the contests calendar.

When the ice skating stadium of Heerenveen-NED guaranteed to organise European Championships for women for at least three years they came back on the contests calendar.