Ice Dance Silver Medalists Face Scoring Controversy at Milano Cortina Olympics
MILAN – Triple world ice dance champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates have captured silver medals at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, yet their achievement has been overshadowed by a growing controversy surrounding the judging that awarded gold to French rivals Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron. The debate has ignited a passionate response from fans worldwide, with many questioning the integrity of the scoring system.
Petition Demands Investigation into Judging Decisions
A petition on Change.org, titled "Require the IOC and ISU to Investigate the Judges Awarding France the Gold," had gathered nearly 9,000 signatures by Thursday evening, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the outcome. The International Skating Union (ISU) now faces mounting pressure to review the scoring process that determined the ice dance podium.
Despite the swirling controversy, Chock and Bates have chosen to focus on the emotional resonance of their performance. "We haven't studied the scoring in depth, but we did speak to our coach and we did talk to each other, and we know how we felt on centre ice after we skated," explained Bates, 36. "We felt like we delivered our absolute best performance that we could have. It was our Olympic moment. It felt like a winning skate to us, and that's what we're going to hold on to."
Overwhelming Fan Support Softens the Sting of Silver
The American duo, who married in 2024, acknowledged they had not seen the petition directly but were deeply moved by the outpouring of support. "It means a lot that people are voicing their opinions on our behalf," Bates remarked. Chock, 33, who was visibly emotional after the competition, echoed this sentiment, stating that the fan response had helped alleviate the disappointment.
"It's been incredible," Chock said. "We've really felt so much love and support in the last 24 hours and through the whole week really, but especially since yesterday. It really means a lot to us to have so many people just appreciate our performance and what we've worked so hard for."
A Historic First Olympic Ice Dance Medal
This silver medal marks a significant milestone for Chock and Bates, as it represents their first Olympic podium finish in ice dance after three previous attempts. They have previously won two gold medals in the team event, including one at the Milano Cortina Games, but this individual achievement holds special meaning.
Reflecting on the intense competition schedule, Bates noted the physical and emotional toll. "We have not, I think, fully processed everything that's happened here," he admitted. "We were so focused on those six days where we performed four times, and it felt like it took all of our mental strength and physical strength and even emotional strength to just stay locked in for that long. And it hasn't even been 24 hours yet. Today has been a whirlwind."
Calls for Greater Clarity in Ice Dance Scoring
Chock emphasized that the confusion surrounding the judging highlights a broader issue for the sport of ice dance. "Anytime the public is confused by results, it does a disservice to our sport," she asserted. "I think it's hard to retain fans when it's difficult to understand what is happening on the ice. There needs to be a lot more clarity for the skaters, for the coaches, and for the audience in order to just have a solid fan base moving forward. People need to understand what they're cheering for and be able to feel confident in the sport that they're supporting."
Nevertheless, Chock remains philosophical about their Olympic experience. "A medal is a medal, the Olympic dream is alive, and it's not something that is tangible," she reflected. "It's something that lives within us, and really is the driving force for our motivation and intrinsic goals. And I think that's what's special about the Olympics. And that's a real win for us."
Looking Ahead: A Continued Commitment to Skating
The disappointment of not securing gold has not dampened the couple's passion for ice dance. "We certainly have plans to remain on the ice," Chock confirmed. "We love skating, and we'll definitely continue performing together." As they prepare to celebrate with family and attend the closing ceremonies, Chock and Bates are focused on cherishing the journey that brought them to this pivotal moment in their careers.
