USA’s Chock and Bates Secure Olympic Ice Dance Silver

During the 2026 Winter Olympics, U.S. ice dancing couple Madison Chock and Evan Bates secured a silver medal, marking their first individual Olympic podium finish. This achievement is particularly significant for the seasoned skaters, who are also married and have represented the U.S. at four Olympic Games.

Olympic Silver Medal Outcome

Chock and Bates, who were strong favorites for gold, faced fierce competition from French duo Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron. They finished just 1.43 points behind the French team. Chock expressed her pride in their performances, stating, “We really gave it our all.” Despite their disappointment, they have much to be thankful for, having previously secured three consecutive national titles.

Competition Highlights

• U.S. ice dancing duo finished second in Milan Olympic Games.
• They had a season-best score in their flamenco routine.
• Chock and Bates contributed to Team USA’s recent team event gold medal.

Controversies Surrounding Rivals

Beaudry and Cizeron’s victory has been overshadowed by controversy. They only paired together in March 2025, following each’s split from long-term partners. Cizeron’s prior partnership with Gabriella Papadakis was especially notable, as they won two Olympic medals, including gold at the Beijing Games.

Papadakis, in a recent publication, detailed her experiences, alleging an imbalanced relationship, which Cizeron has denied, labeling it a “smear campaign.” This backdrop adds layers to the narrative of the Olympics, as spectators raise questions about ethics in sports.

Future Prospects for Chock and Bates

Chock and Bates began their partnership in 2011 and married in 2024. They continue to train in Montreal and care for their two toy poodles. Despite their impressive achievement, they remain uncertain about future competitions. Chock indicated a lack of immediate desire to continue competing, while Bates acknowledged their need to approach training cautiously due to physical challenges.

As they contemplate their future, they remain pivotal figures within Team USA, serving as mentors to younger skaters like Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik. Their dedication to the sport and each other underscores the deep bond that extends beyond the ice.