Fournier Beaudry maintains ‘spark’ and ‘passion’ ahead of new challenge with Olympic champion Cizeron
Canadian figure skater Laurence Fournier Beaudry is kicking off a fresh chapter in her illustrious skating career, pairing up with the celebrated Olympic and world ice dance champion Guillaume Cizeron. At 32 years old, Fournier Beaudry shows no signs of slowing down after over a decade in the sport, and the duo is set to train at the highly respected Ice Academy of Montreal while aiming to represent France in upcoming competitions.
In an interview with CBC Sports, Cizeron shared how their partnership took shape. “I introduced the idea to Laurence a few months ago. We were both at a crossroads, nearing the end, but felt some unfinished business,” he explained, highlighting the duo’s desire to write a new chapter in their skating stories.
This partnership marks a significant comeback for Cizeron, who has not seen competitive action in nearly three years. Previously teamed with Gabriella Papadakis, with whom he garnered a gold medal at the 2022 Olympics and claimed five world titles, Cizeron officially wrapped up his four-year partnership in December 2024.
From Fournier Beaudry’s perspective, her journey has also been eventful. Competing for Canada in the Beijing 2022 Olympics, she placed ninth with former partner Nikolaj Soerensen. That partnership ended in controversy, as Skate Canada imposed a lengthy ban on Soerensen due to serious allegations, ultimately reshaping Fournier Beaudry’s competitive future.
Encouragingly, she says her essence as a competitor is far from dimmed. “We love challenges… we saw this as an opportunity to evolve and create something wonderful together,” Fournier Beaudry reflected. Cizeron similarly affirmed their mutual drive: “We could have retired happily, but we’re still young, and the passion to perform is what keeps us going.”
With both skaters bringing years of expertise to the ice, they are excited about the potential of their collaboration. “On the ice, off the ice, everything that goes into the preparation… we have so much to learn from each other,” Cizeron said.
As they gear up for their competitive debut in August 2024, Fournier Beaudry expressed excitement for the road ahead. “We have nothing to lose, everything to gain,” she said. “Discovering this new journey has been nothing short of a beautiful surprise.”
