During the men's short program at the Olympics, a Swiss commentator mistakenly claimed that French skater Adam Siao Him Fa was in the air for 69 seconds, leading to an awkward correction by her colleague.
At the 2026 Winter Olympics, a humorous gaffe occurred during the broadcast of the men's short program in figure skating on the Swiss channel RTS2. Commentator Adrienne Michallet incorrectly stated that French skater Adam Siao Him Fa spent 69 seconds in the air while performing a jump. Her comment sparked immediate confusion and embarrassment, necessitating a quick correction by her co-commentator, who pointed out that the correct time was actually just a second. This slip-up was met with laughter and bemusement among viewers and fans, highlighting the challenges of live sports commentary.
The incident highlights the pressure on commentators to deliver accurate and engaging commentary in real-time, especially in fast-paced events like figure skating. Michallet's comment, although a simple slip of the tongue, not only drew attention to the intricacies of skating jumps but also showcased the dynamics of collaboration in broadcasting. Her insistence on her initial claim, citing media notes, added to the humor of the moment, as it became clear that even well-prepared commentators can falter in high-stakes situations.
As the Olympics continue, such moments can serve to lighten the atmosphere amidst the intense competition and serious performances. They also emphasize the popularity of figure skating as a sport that attracts both casual viewers and dedicated fans, making it a staple of Olympic broadcasting. Incidents like this may even bolster the public’s connection to the event, reminding audiences that the nature of live television can lead to unpredictable yet entertaining moments.
