Controversy Surrounds French Ice Dancers Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron
Ice dance duo Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron are in the spotlight at the Milano Cortina Olympics. This pair, deemed favorites for gold, is enveloped in controversy surrounding their partnership.
Controversies Affecting Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron
There have been significant allegations concerning the duo’s formation. Gabriella Papadakis, a former partner of Cizeron, made claims about their partnership dynamics. Additionally, Fournier Beaudry’s previous partner Nikolaj Sorensen was suspended amid serious allegations that have added to the scrutiny.
Documentary Highlights Tensions
The controversy escalated with the release of “Glitter & Gold: Ice Dancing,” a Netflix documentary. In this series, retired skater Adam Rippon remarked on the “sinister energy” surrounding the team. Cizeron, when questioned about this perception, deflected, emphasizing their enjoyment of skating together.
Recent Achievements and Challenges
- Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron teamed up in March 2023.
- They have since won two Grand Prix events and the European Championships.
- At the Grand Prix Final, they finished in second place, trailing Madison Chock and Evan Bates.
Even with a significant fall during their performance, the pair is poised to compete fiercely for Olympic gold. Cizeron expressed gratitude for their journey together, stating that every moment on the ice feels like a bonus.
Papadakis’s Memoir and Its Impact
The situation intensified after the January 15 release of Gabriella Papadakis’s memoir titled “So as Not to Disappear.” In it, she characterized Cizeron as “controlling” and “demanding.” Cizeron has branded the memoir a “smear campaign,” indicating his intentions to take legal action against the claims.
Crisis Following Suspension of Sorensen
Adding to the turmoil, Nikolaj Sorensen faced a six-year suspension by Canada’s Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner due to allegations of sexual maltreatment dating back to 2012. His suspension was later overturned based on jurisdictional issues.
Fournier Beaudry, involved with Sorensen for over a decade, expressed her distress regarding the negative impact on her own career, feeling like collateral damage during the fallout.
Looking Ahead
The Netflix series aims to provide insight into the lives of ice dancers, including Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron. Cizeron hopes the public gains a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in ice dancing. He noted their desire to share the behind-the-scenes realities, allowing fans to appreciate their hard work and dedication beyond competition.
As they prepare for the Olympics, the focus will remain on their performances amid the backdrop of ongoing allegations and public scrutiny.
