A wardrobe malfunction nearly cost Canada’s ice dance pair a points deduction at the 2026 Winter Olympics, but a split-second save kept them in medal position.
WEBDESK – Act Global Media
A dramatic costume mishap nearly changed the standings in the ice dance competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics after Canadian skaters Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier avoided a costly points deduction during their rhythm dance routine.
Midway through the performance, part of Poirier’s arm cuff tore loose and became tangled in Gilles’ tights while she was lifted and spinning on his shoulder. Under Olympic figure skating rules, any clothing that falls onto the ice can lead to a deduction because it creates a safety hazard.
Gilles quickly grabbed the loose piece after landing and hid it behind her back before the pair struck their final pose, preventing the item from touching the rink surface.
Points and podium battle
The quick reaction preserved their score of 86.18 points, keeping the Canadians in third place and firmly in medal contention heading into the free dance segment later this week.
France’s Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron lead the standings, followed by the United States duo Madison Chock and Evan Bates in second.
A rare Olympic escape
Wardrobe malfunctions in figure skating are uncommon but can have serious competitive consequences. Athletes typically lose a point per violation if costume elements fall onto the ice.
Officials confirmed no deduction was applied, allowing Gilles and Poirier to maintain their podium position.
The pair, two time world silver medalists, now head into the final program hoping their Olympic campaign will be remembered for their skating rather than the near mishap that almost derailed it.
