Japan’s premier figure skating pair, Riku Miura (25) and Ryuichi Kihara (34), have fully disclosed their free skate program for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. The duo dominated the season with flawless performances, sharing every moment through social media and public events.
Dominant Performances and Season Highlights
Miura and Kihara decided early to execute this season perfectly, openly sharing their joys and challenges. They expressed deep gratitude to coaches and staff, distributing sweets as tokens of appreciation. Despite the pressure, they maintained positivity, even underweight concerns.
The pair debuted in 2019 and swept the 2022-2023 ISU Grand Slam events, securing Japan’s top honors. At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, they earned the nation’s first pairs medal with a seventh-place finish. Heading into Milan-Cortina, they placed fifth in the short program but delivered a strong free skate overall.
Record-Breaking Scores
In the short program, they nailed a challenging lift for a 6.90 score despite expectations of failure, taking first. Their free skate reached 158.13 points, the highest season score and Japan’s all-time best. The combined total of 231.24 marked the highest since the 2006 Torino Games, positioning them medal contenders.
Reflections on Past and Future
Post-competition, Kihara reflected, “The Olympics excitement has faded quickly, leaving no medal to hold. As two people, we lacked the weight of achievement, but we gave our all.” He emphasized personal growth over regrets.
Miura added that Kihara’s performances motivated her deeply, though she understood any potential exit. “Kihei’s extension this season was crucial; pairing with another feels unimaginable.”
Both skaters view themselves as national treasures, brimming with appreciation. They regret past errors that cost a medal but harbor no bitterness, anticipating further success and deeper Olympic contention.
