Demands, control, and accusations of sexual assault: the controversies surrounding a pair of Olympic skaters
French ice dancers Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron are facing serious controversies ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics, overshadowing their athletic achievements.
Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron, a French ice dancing pair, have emerged as notable competitors heading into the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina. While their performances on the ice have been commendable, recent controversies have placed them in the spotlight for reasons beyond their athleticism. Allegations of sexual assault and issues surrounding their training conditions have sparked significant media attention and raised concerns in the sports community.
Fournier Beaudry, at 32, has a record of impressive achievements, including winning two silver medals at the Four Continents Figure Skating Championships in 2023 and 2024, and clinching her first gold medal at the European Figure Skating Championship in 2026. Despite her origins in Montreal, Canada, she currently represents France. Cizeron, 31, has an illustrious history with six medals at the World Figure Skating Championships and numerous accolades across European competitions, making them one of the top pairs in the sport.
However, the mounting allegations against them could have serious implications, not only for their careers but also for the integrity of the sport. With issues of control and responsibility in competitive figure skating coming to the forefront, stakeholders will need to address these challenges proactively to maintain fair play and the well-being of athletes. As they prepare for the Olympics, how these controversies will affect their performance and public perception remains an open question.