In 2018, Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir concluded their Olympic career with a remarkable performance at the Gangneung Ice Arena in Pyeongchang. Their captivating “Moulin Rouge” routine secured them a gold medal with a world-record score. CBC Sports analyst Brenda Irving hailed them as possibly the greatest ice dancers ever. This victory marked Canada’s most recent Olympic gold in figure skating.
Alongside Virtue and Moir’s success, Canadian figure skaters clinched three bronze medals in Pyeongchang, including a team gold. Fast forward to Milano Cortina 2026, and Canada aims for at least one medal, realizing the challenge of replicating the 2018 achievements.
Following the retirement of key figures like Virtue, Moir, and others post-2018, Canada faced a rebuilding phase in figure skating. The 2022 Olympics were unique due to the Kamila Valieva scandal, where Canada missed the podium. Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier now lead the Canadian team, striving to create their own legacy.
Gilles and Poirier have shown promise with consistent performances in recent championships. Despite facing setbacks, they remain determined to make their mark in Milano Cortina. The competition is tough, especially in pairs, where the duo aims for a podium finish.
In singles, Canada looks to rising star Stephen Gogolev to lead the charge. Gogolev’s return from injury has rekindled hope for a strong showing at the upcoming Olympics. The men’s singles competition at nationals is anticipated to be fiercely competitive this year.
Canada’s figure skating future also shines bright with emerging talents on the Junior Grand Prix circuit. The 2026 Olympics present an opportunity for Canada to build momentum and showcase its depth in figure skating. While the 2018 success was exceptional, the focus now is on the current team’s performance and potential at the upcoming Games.
