U.S. Figure Skating Requests ISU Review Over Ice Dance Judging Controversy
U.S. Figure Skating is taking steps to address concerns regarding the judging system used in ice dance competitions. They are preparing to send a letter to the International Skating Union (ISU) seeking a review of the judging process following controversy at the 2026 Olympic Games.
Judging Controversy at the 2026 Olympics
The controversy centers around the narrow margin by which French pair Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron defeated the U.S. team of Madison Chock and Evan Bates. The final score showed a difference of only 1.43 points.
Discrepancies in Judging Scores
One judge, Jézabel Dabouis from France, issued significantly higher scores for the French couple. Her score of 137.45 for Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron in the free dance was almost eight points more than Chock and Bates’ 129.74.
- Dabouis awarded the only score over 130 to the French team among all competitors.
- Five out of nine judges ranked Chock and Bates higher, indicating a division among judges.
U.S. Figure Skating expressed their commitment to supporting their athletes, stating, “We don’t expect a reversal. We are doing this in support of our athletes.” The organization aims to highlight potential flaws in the current system.
Technical Analysis of Judging Scores
The system used to evaluate performances drops the highest and lowest scores from each judge. This makes it difficult to pinpoint which scores may have influenced the outcome. Dabouis also gave a considerable advantage of 5.74 points to the French duo in the rhythm dance segment, with her score of 93.34 for them being the highest awarded overall.
Official Response from ISU
The ISU has commented on the varietal nature of judging, affirming that multiple mechanisms are in place to reduce discrepancies among judges. They expressed full confidence in the integrity of the scores given during competitions, stating:
“It is normal for there to be a range of scores given by different judges on any panel.”
Reactions from Athletes
Chock and Bates, who have been dominant in recent competitions with three consecutive world titles, have expressed their bewilderment regarding the results. Bates reflected on the nature of the sport, saying:
“Sometimes you can feel like you do everything right and it doesn’t go your way.” He acknowledged the subjective aspect of figure skating, emphasizing their commitment to performing at their best.
The planned letter from U.S. Figure Skating aims to initiate a dialogue about the judging practices in ice dance, ensuring fairness and clarity for future competitions.
