Winter Olympics 2026: Madison Chock/Evan Bates Give USA Early Lead in Figure Skating Team Event
Madison Chock and Evan Bates kicked off the Winter Olympics 2026 with a phenomenal performance, earning a spectacular 91.06 points in the rhythm dance segment of the team event, propelling Team USA into an early lead on February 6. The dynamic duo surpasses strong rivals, including France’s Laurence Fournier Beaudry and reigning Beijing 2022 champion, Guillaume Cizeron, who trailed closely behind in second place.
“We definitely skated great and we’re very happy… to break 90 is always a great feat,” Bates remarked, reflecting on their impressive achievement while embarking on their Olympic journey. Chock added, “It sets Team USA up great for the rest of the week.” As the three-time world champions, their elegant routine to Lenny Kravitz’s hit resonated with the crowd and judge alike, enabling them to score ahead of the pack.
France made waves as well, with Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron impressively closing the gap to just 1.08 points behind the leading Americans. Their rhythmic routine was lively, boosting their score and personal best to 89.98 points, showcasing their charismatic energy that was echoed in the audience’s cheers.
Great Britain’s Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson secured a notable third place with their energetic Spice Girls routine, bringing in a score of 86.85. “You could feel [the audience] get involved,” Gibson noted, sharing their joy at performing to such enthusiasm.
The rhythm dance competition marked the opening of a thrilling figure skating team event that will witness further segments, including pairs and women’s events over the weekend, culminating in the final showdown on February 8.
As competition heats up, every skater looks to excel, with Team USA setting a high bar early. Following them are fierce contenders from France and Great Britain, indicating an exhilarating Olympic ice skating journey ahead in Milano Cortina 2026.
In concluding applause, the elite level of talent and diverse performances overall enrich the Winter Olympics atmosphere. With nail-biting finale segments to come, all eyes will be on who will clinch the title, as they lace up for the ultimate showdown amidst the world’s finest competitors.
