Shibutanis announce competitive comeback ahead of 2026 Olympics
Maia Shibutani and Alex Shibutani
Two-time Olympic medalists Maia and Alex Shibutani are returning to competitive figure skating, marking a highly anticipated comeback as they set their sights on the 2025–26 Olympic season. The siblings, affectionately known as the “Shib Sibs,” will train under renowned coaches Marina Zoueva and Massimo Scali as they prepare for a new chapter in their decorated careers.
The Shibutanis left an indelible mark on ice dance with their elegant style, innovative choreography, and powerful sibling dynamic. They are two-time U.S. national champions (2016, 2017) and three-time World medalists, having first reached the World podium in 2011 at just 16 and 20 years old—making them the youngest ice dance team in nearly five decades to do so. Their historic performances at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics earned them bronze medals in both the ice dance and team events, making them the first athletes of Asian descent to ever medal in Olympic ice dance.
After the Games, the Shibutanis stepped away from competition. Their hiatus extended following Maia’s diagnosis and recovery from kidney cancer in 2019—a life-altering experience that shaped their perspective. During their time away, the siblings embraced creativity and advocacy, authoring four children’s books and becoming prominent voices for diversity and representation in sport. They also remained close to the figure skating world through choreography and ambassadorial work.
“These past seven years have challenged and inspired us in ways we never expected,” Maia shared. “I’m so happy and grateful to be healthy and in a position to make the decision to return to the sport I love in this way.”
Alex echoed the sentiment, adding, “Our experiences and the new skills we’ve developed during our time away from competition have brought us different perspectives and created some exciting new possibilities. We don’t take any of this for granted. We’re really enjoying the process and look forward to performing and competing together again.”
Their return promises not only artistic growth but renewed competitive fire. The siblings began their ice dance partnership in 2004 and have medaled at every U.S. Championships they entered—a streak spanning 14 appearances. In 2023, their contributions to the sport were formally recognized with their induction into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame.
“As Olympic medalists and U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Famers, it’s incredibly exciting to have Maia and Alex return to competition next season,” said Justin Dillon, U.S. Figure Skating’s senior director of athlete high performance. “They are strong ambassadors for the sport, both on and off the ice. Their comeback adds to the excitement surrounding Team USA after a very successful year and makes the team stronger as we look toward the Olympic season.”
With a wealth of experience, a fresh perspective, and a renewed passion for the sport, the Shibutanis’ return is poised to be one of the defining storylines of the upcoming Olympic cycle—and one that resonates far beyond the rink.
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