Madison Chock and Evan Bates Dominate Olympic Team Event
In the Olympic figure skating team event, Madison Chock and Evan Bates showcased their talent and determination, securing the top position for Team USA. Their free dance, “Paint it, Black,” infused with flamenco and paso doble elements, highlighted their precision, power, and control on the ice.
Madison Chock and Evan Bates Shine
The husband-and-wife duo achieved an impressive season-best score of 133.23 points. This performance not only solidifies their dominance in ice dance but also serves as a statement leading into the individual events. As three-time reigning world champions, they aim to conquer the one significant title missing from their accolades.
Chock and Bates have hinted that this season may be their last. Their recent performances demonstrate a resolve to conclude their careers on a high note, especially with emerging competitors like France’s Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron posing a challenge in upcoming individual events.
Highlights from the Competition
- Team USA: Madison Chock and Evan Bates – 133.23 points (1st place)
- Team Italy: Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri – 124.22 points (2nd place)
- Team Canada: Marjorie Lajoie and Zachary Lagha – 120.90 points (3rd place)
Italy’s Strong Performance
Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri from Italy maintained their position in the medal race, finishing second with a score of 124.22 points. This duo is competing in their fourth Olympics, and they have expressed the emotional boost of performing close to home in Milan.
After experiencing a setback with a fourth-place finish at the 2025 World Figure Skating Championships, Guignard and Fabbri’s momentum revived following a silver medal at the European Championships last month. Their recent free dance to music from the film “Diamanti” further reinforced Italy’s medal aspirations.
Canada’s Rising Stars
Securing third place was the Canadian pair, Marjorie Lajoie and Zachary Lagha, who stepped in as substitutes for Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier. They achieved a score of 120.90 points, demonstrating both maturity and technical skill in their Olympic debut.
With their impressive performance, Lajoie and Lagha highlight the growing depth in Canadian ice dance, showcasing a promising future for the team.
The Olympic figure skating team event continues to deliver thrilling performances, setting the stage for an exciting individual competition ahead.
