By: Pj Kwong

Being named to the Canadian Figure Skating Olympic Team for the 2026 Winter Games is a moment of immense pride and gratitude. It reflects years of dedication, resilience, and belief, supported by coaches, teammates, family, and the broader skating community across Canada. Wearing the maple leaf on the Olympic stage is both an honour and a responsibility, and it inspires a deep commitment to represent the country with passion, excellence, and heart.

Last night in Gatineau watching the athletes walking into a room crowded with media, Skate Canada officials, and family, it was never more clear that this was the fulfilment of a dream for the skaters. It didn’t matter if this was a first or return trip to the Games, earning a spot was never a foregone conclusion and donning a Team Canada Olympic uniform jacket one at a time was the ultimate reminder of the sacrifices it took to get there.

“This was a spectacular figure skating Nationals and to come away with Skate Ontario athletes at the top of the Senior podiums in Men, Women, Ice Dance and Pairs was a testament to their hard work and dedication,” said Lisa Alexander, Skate Ontario’s Executive Director. “Our Ontario athletes will represent Canada in all four disciplines at the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, and we couldn’t be more #SkateOntarioProud!”

50 and 20 years ago respectively, Ontario men earned the only Canadian figure medals at the Games in 1976 and 2006. Hats off to Toller Cranston (1976) and Jeffrey Buttle (2006) ! These are but two examples of Canada’s figure skating legacy at the Olympic Winter Games which is defined by excellence, innovation, and consistency on the world’s biggest stage. From historic podium performances to groundbreaking moments in singles, pairs, and ice dance, Canadian skaters have combined technical strength with artistry, earning international respect and inspiring generations. The maple leaf has become synonymous with competitive depth, sportsmanship, and a lasting impact on the evolution of the sport.

Congratulations to these Champions from Ontario who can add 2026 Olympian to their resume:

Ice Dance: Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier

Photo Credit: Tina Weltz Media

Men: Stephen Gogolev

Photo Credit: Tina Weltz Media

Women: Madeline Schizas

Photo Credit: Tina Weltz Media

Pair: Lia Pereira and Trennt Michaud

Photo Credit: Tina Weltz Media

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