As winter nears its end, figure skating enthusiasts are in for an exciting week as the world championships kick off in Prague. While some prominent athletes opted out after the Olympics, there are still compelling storylines to follow. Additionally, a critical report on the Canadian sports system and the thrilling conclusion to the alpine skiing season are on the radar.
In Olympic years, the figure skating world championships pose a challenge as top skaters, drained physically and emotionally from the intense Olympic competition, often choose to end their season rather than prepare for another significant event. This year, several gold medalists from the recent Milan events will not be participating in the world championships in Prague, including Alysa Liu, Mikhail Shaidorov, and Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara. Despite these absences, there are still noteworthy skaters competing and intriguing narratives to follow.
One highlight is the potential final performance of ice dance partners Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier, who secured a bronze medal at the Olympics. The Canadian pair, who have been consistent podium finishers, are contemplating retirement but have left the decision open-ended. Joining them are other Canadian ice dance teams, Marjorie Lajoie and Zachary Lagha, and Marie-Jade Lauriault and Romain Le Gac.
Another standout is Stephen Gogolev, the promising Canadian skater who impressed in his Olympic debut and will now make his world championships debut. Additionally, American skater Ilia Malinin, seeking redemption after a disappointing Olympics, aims for his third consecutive world title.
Japanese star Kaori Sakamoto, set to retire at 25, takes the spotlight in the women’s event, with potential competition from rising star Ami Nakai. The pairs event is wide open with the absence of reigning champions and past titleholders, offering opportunities for new contenders like Anastasiia Metelkina and Luka Berulava of Georgia.
To catch all the action from the world championships, viewers can tune in live on CBC Gem and the CBC Sports website. The event kicks off with the women’s short program on Wednesday, followed by the pairs and men’s events, culminating in the championship gala on Sunday.