The 2026 Winter Olympics saw a surprising outcome in the ice dance competition, as French duo Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron secured the gold medal. They narrowly defeated the heavily favored American team of Madison Chock and Evan Bates on February 11.
A Narrow Victory
Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron achieved a final score of 225.82, just 1.42 points ahead of Chock and Bates, who finished with 224.49. Canada’s Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier rounded out the podium, earning a score of 217.74.
Recent Partnership and Controversy
This win is particularly notable as Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron formed their partnership relatively recently, in March 2025. Their success, though, is shadowed by ongoing controversies related to their personal histories.
Fournier Beaudry’s previous partner, Nikolaj Sørensen, was suspended from the sport in 2024 following allegations of a 2012 sexual assault. Cizeron’s previous partnership with Gabriella Papadakis concluded with their retirement in December 2024.
What Could Happen Next
Following this closely contested result, calls for an investigation into the judging could emerge. Analysts expect scrutiny of the scoring process, though any formal action would depend on official reviews and potential appeals. The American team could request a review of the scores, but the outcome of such a request is uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron become a team?
Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron partnered up in March 2025.
Who finished in second place?
Madison Chock and Evan Bates of Team USA finished in second place with a score of 224.49.
What is the nature of the controversy surrounding the winning duo?
The duo has been shrouded in controversy stemming from their previous relationships, specifically involving allegations against Fournier Beaudry’s former partner, Nikolaj Sørensen, and Cizeron’s recent retirement from a long-standing partnership.
What does this outcome mean for the future of ice dance competition and the role of personal history in athletic performance?
