Japan’s figure skaters delivered a mixed performance at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic test event, topping the team event short program on February 16 local time at Milan Arena in Italy.
Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara Dominate Pairs Short
Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara secured first place in the pairs short program with a score of 82.84 points. They outperformed second place by 6.90 points and also led the pre-free program segment with 155.55 points.
This strong showing positions Japan at the top of the team event standings, highlighting the pair’s potential to carry the nation toward medals.
Shoma Uno’s 5th Place Raises Concerns
In men’s singles, Shoma Uno recorded a total score of 73.11 points, including 38.14 in technical element score (TES) and 34.97 in program component score (PCS). This result placed him fifth overall among the top competitors.
Uno’s performance marks his lowest short program score to date, contributing to Japan’s challenges in that discipline despite dominating pairs.
Reactions from the Athletes
Ryuichi Kihara remarked, “I was scared how it turned out like this.”
Riku Miura explained, “Lifts rely on two people’s efforts and timing. Even if the gold medal slips away this time, we can still experience the same joy.”
Outlook for Free Programs and Overall Medals
While men’s singles fell short, Japan remains in contention for overall medals entering the free programs. The nation’s current trajectory represents its strongest position since the 2006 Torino Olympics, where the pairs short event peaked at 5.80 points for the top Japanese entry.
Analysts note that despite heavy favorites status, execution in key areas like men’s events proved elusive, with no podium finishes in recent qualifiers. Free skates provide an opportunity for recovery, keeping territorial medal hopes alive.
