Kaori Sakamoto Withdraws from World Team Event, Japan Adjusts Lineup

Kaori Sakamoto will not compete in the upcoming world team figure skating event, organizers confirmed Friday evening ET. The move forces Japan to reshuffle its entries and raises fresh questions about the nation's medal chances in the team-format competition.

Withdrawal cited for health and training reasons

Sakamoto stepped back to focus on recovery and preparation for the remainder of the season. Team management emphasized the decision prioritized the skater's long-term condition rather than a single event. Teammates and coaching staff expressed support, noting that the compressed calendar has left elite skaters making difficult choices about where to compete.

The federation named alternates who will take up spots on the line-up for the short program segment. Selection decisions factored in recent international results and readiness to perform under the team-format pressure. The change in the roster was described as pragmatic: an attempt to protect Sakamoto's season while still fielding a competitive squad.

Impact on Japan's team prospects and event schedule

Sakamoto's absence alters Japan's strategic options in both the women's and overall team tallies. As a multiple-time national champion and one of the country's most consistent scorers, she would have been a linchpin in pursuit of podium placement. With the alternates stepping in, Japan will rely on depth across singles, pairs, and ice dance to stay in contention.

Event organizers adjusted the starting order to reflect the updated roster and confirmed that competition times remain as scheduled. Fans who planned to attend are facing minimal logistical disruption, but broadcasters and promotional partners have updated lineups used in pre-event coverage.

What comes next for Sakamoto and Japan's skating season

Skating authorities indicated Sakamoto remains in the federation's plans for later championships this season, contingent on her recovery and training progression. The federation will monitor her condition closely and provide updates ahead of upcoming selection deadlines for major international championships.

For the team event, Japan now emphasizes a depth-focused strategy, counting on strong performances from its remaining top skaters and the resilience of alternates thrust into bigger roles. The competition will be an early test of that depth and could offer younger skaters a higher-profile platform to stake their claim for future assignments.

With the international season entering a decisive stretch, teams across the field will balance athlete health against championship ambitions. Sakamoto's withdrawal is a reminder of how tightly packed schedules and the physical demands of elite skating influence strategic decisions in the lead-up to the season's marquee events.