Olympic figure skaters have reported damage to their blades after stepping on a podium with a rough surface, raising concerns ahead of future competitions.
During the recent team competition at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics, several medal-winning figure skaters from the U.S., Japan, and Italy reported damage to their skate blades caused by the podium's rough surface. The podium was made of a rough, asphalt-like material that athletes claim chipped their meticulously maintained equipment. Following these complaints, the Japanese team officially protested to the organizing committee, highlighting the issue's severity and seeking accountability.
The damage to the skates forced many athletes to arrange for repairs at specialist workshops ahead of their next competitions, putting pressure on the athletes already focused on performance. Notably, the incident has raised questions about the podium's design and the organizers' responsibility to ensure it meets the rigorous demands of elite sports. Team official Yosuke Takeuchi noted that repairs were initiated promptly, but the situation remains concerning for both athletes and coaches alike.
The ongoing discussions about the podium's suitability could affect future events, as organizers must ensure all surfaces used for competition are safe and appropriate for the precision required in figure skating. This incident, now dubbed 'Skate gate,' has sparked discussions about athlete safety and the importance of maintaining high standards in event organization, especially in light of the recent complaints and protests.
