Winter Olympics 2026: Why “Quad God” Ilia Malinin is on another planet – and who can bring him back down to earth
Former Olympic champion Tara Lipinski states, “Ilia Malinin runs men’s figure skating.” This declaration has become a reality over the past two and a half years. The 21-year-old American superstar has earned two world titles and boasts an impressive 12-event international winning streak dating back to late 2023.
“It really is Ilia against the world… Ilia against himself,” remarks 2014 Olympic team bronze medalist Ashley Wagner. Observers are awed as Malinin consistently surpasses what once seemed unattainable in figure skating.
Malinin transcends boundaries with his stunning quadruple Axel. A jump not showcased in competition until recently, he’s landed it multiple times throughout his career, cementing victories during world championships in 2024 and 2025.
“Nobody was ever close to doing the quad Axel until Ilia Malinin,” remarks Olympic medalist Adam Rippon. “It’s absolutely unbelievable to see this jump in person, especially as it was once thought impossible.”
Heading into the free skate on February 13, Malinin aims to not only achieve Olympic history by executing the first quad Axel but also to secure gold at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, an accomplishment still tantalizingly out of reach.
Wagner emphasizes, “He is a once-in-a-generation talent that we are so lucky to witness.” However, the path to the podium is treacherous. Malinin faces formidable rivals, Japan’s Kagiyama Yuma and France’s Adam Siao Him Fa, both hot on his trail, trailing less than six points, which represents less than a single missed quad jump.
Lipinski identifies Kagiyama as a key challenger, while Rippon admires Siao Him Fa, noting, “He can be so hot and cold, but he has what it takes.” The upcoming competitors must leverage their experience and deliver flawless performances to unseat Malinin, who has a calculated seven quad jumps planned.
Both Kagiyama and Siao Him Fa showcase impressive artistry combined with technical prowess. However, hitting those quad jumps remains imperative for them to contend against the skill set of the reigning champion.
As onlookers anticipate a thrilling face-off, it’s evident that Malinin has set a new standard in men’s figure skating, raising the bar both technically and artistically. His resilience amid pressure shines as he continues to dazzle fans and foes alike.
The gold is Malinin’s ultimate goal, but only time will tell if the “Quad God” manages to reign supreme or if challengers will eclipse his stellar sheen in Milano.
