A New Chapter on Ice: Guillaume Cizeron Announces Return to Competition with Laurence Fournier Beaudry
The world of figure skating is abuzz with the news that French ice dance legend Guillaume Cizeron is set to make a comeback, embarking on a fresh competitive journey with a new partner. Just months after he and Gabriella Papadakis, his long-time skating partner, officially ended their illustrious partnership, Cizeron has announced his pairing with Canadian skater Laurence Fournier Beaudry. The news, initially revealed in an Instagram post on Sunday, March 2nd, marks a significant turning point in the career of the five-time world champion, five-time European champion, and 2022 Olympic gold medalist.
Cizeron, now 30 years old, will be teaming up with Fournier Beaudry, 32, a Quebec native who has been a training partner and close friend in Montreal for years. Fournier Beaudry previously competed with Nikolaj Sorensen, representing Canada. Together, they achieved a respectable 9th place finish at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. However, their partnership was abruptly disrupted when Sorensen was suspended by the Office of the Integrity Commissioner of the Canadian Sport for a minimum of six years following allegations of "sexual abuse" against a former American skater. This unfortunate situation opened the door for Cizeron and Fournier Beaudry to explore a competitive collaboration, a prospect that both athletes have embraced with enthusiasm.
"It’s a bit like the second act of my career," Cizeron told Agence France-Presse. The partnership is not just a strategic move, but also a merging of two exceptionally talented individuals who share a deep understanding and mutual respect. Fournier Beaudry brings to the table a wealth of experience, technical skill, and artistic flair, complementing Cizeron’s renowned grace, innovation, and captivating stage presence. Their combined abilities promise to create a dynamic and compelling force on the ice.
The new duo is expected to make their competitive debut as early as September, with their sights firmly set on qualifying for the next Winter Olympics, scheduled to take place in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, from February 6th to 22nd, 2026. Representing France, Cizeron and Fournier Beaudry will undoubtedly face fierce competition from other talented ice dance teams vying for a spot on the Olympic stage. One notable rival will be the European silver medalists, Evgeniia Lopareva and Geoffrey Brissaud, who showcased their skills at the European Championships in Tallinn earlier this year.
Despite the challenges ahead, the French Federation of Ice Sports has expressed immense excitement and support for the newly formed partnership. In a statement, the federation lauded the union as a combination of "two of the greatest talents in world skating," highlighting the potential of the duo to "inspire the next generation" of ice dancers. The federation recognizes the impact Cizeron has already had on the sport, pushing boundaries and redefining artistry. Pairing him with Fournier Beaudry presents a unique opportunity to further elevate the level of competition and attract new fans to the sport.
The announcement of Cizeron and Fournier Beaudry’s partnership comes at a time of significant change and evolution within the ice dance landscape. With established teams disbanding and new partnerships emerging, the competitive field is becoming increasingly unpredictable and dynamic. This environment creates an exciting opportunity for Cizeron and Fournier Beaudry to make their mark and establish themselves as a dominant force in the years leading up to the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Meanwhile, Gabriella Papadakis, Cizeron’s former partner, has also been exploring new avenues within the skating world. She recently captivated audiences at a gala in Switzerland, performing with American skater Madison Hubbell. This groundbreaking performance marked the first time Papadakis had skated with another woman, a decision she explained as an opportunity to "break the somewhat gendered codes of our sport." Papadakis’s willingness to challenge convention and push boundaries reflects a growing movement within figure skating towards greater inclusivity and artistic expression.
The separate paths taken by Cizeron and Papadakis, while representing a departure from their highly successful partnership, also demonstrate their individual resilience, creativity, and commitment to the sport. Both athletes are embracing new challenges and opportunities, continuing to contribute to the evolution and growth of figure skating in their own unique ways.
The partnership between Guillaume Cizeron and Laurence Fournier Beaudry promises to be a captivating story in the world of figure skating. Their combined talent, experience, and dedication, coupled with the support of the French Federation of Ice Sports, position them as strong contenders for future success. As they prepare for their competitive debut and embark on their journey towards the 2026 Winter Olympics, the skating community eagerly anticipates witnessing the magic they will create on the ice. Their collaboration represents not only a new chapter in their individual careers but also a potentially transformative moment for the sport of ice dance. It’s a testament to the enduring power of athleticism, artistry, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
