Prague – Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron of France have capped off a remarkable first season together by winning gold at the 2026 ISU World Figure Skating Championships in Prague, Czechia. Their victory on Saturday, March 28th, completes a historic treble – claiming the European Championship, Olympic gold, and now the World Championship title. This achievement marks the first time a French ice dance team has achieved this feat in 34 years, according to reports.
The pair delivered a stunning free dance performance, building on their lead from the rhythm dance segment of the competition. Their program, set to music from the film The Whale, captivated the audience and judges alike, earning them a personal best score of 230.81 overall (138.07 in the free dance), as reported by Olympics.com. The performance was described as a “masterpiece” and an “apotheosis” to a perfect season.
A Season of Firsts
This World Championship title is particularly significant for both skaters. For Guillaume Cizeron, 31, it’s his sixth World Championship gold, adding to the five he previously won with Gabriella Papadakis. For Laurence Fournier Beaudry, 33, this is her first major international title, marking a career-defining moment for the Montreal native who became a French citizen to compete for her adopted country. The victory represents a culmination of dedication and partnership, as Cizeron transitioned to skating with Fournier Beaudry after his successful run with Papadakis.
The duo’s ascent has been swift and impressive. In just one year, they’ve not only won major championships but have also resonated with audiences and judges, demonstrating a unique chemistry and artistic interpretation on the ice. Cizeron himself described their performance as “a moment suspended,” highlighting the emotional depth and connection they bring to their routines.
Building on Olympic Success
The World Championship win comes on the heels of their gold medal performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. Although their Olympic performance was already a triumph, the pair has demonstrably improved since then, refining their artistry and technical execution. They addressed the “two blemishes” from their Olympic victory, intensifying their already majestic interpretation and achieving a perfect ten-point score from the judges, according to L’Équipe.
The skaters’ success isn’t simply about technical prowess; it’s about their ability to connect with the audience and tell a story through their skating. Their free dance program, in particular, was praised for its intensity, grace, and innovation. The choice of music from The Whale, a film known for its emotional weight, proved to be a powerful vehicle for their artistic expression.
What’s Next for the Champions?
With a World Championship title secured, the question now turns to the future of Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron. Having achieved the rare treble of European, Olympic, and World titles in their first season together, the pair has established themselves as the dominant force in ice dance. Their next steps will likely involve defending their titles at future championships and continuing to push the boundaries of the sport.
While no immediate plans have been announced, the skaters are expected to take some time to rest and reflect on their accomplishments before beginning preparations for the next competitive season. Fans can follow updates on their training and competition schedule through the official ISU website and their social media channels.
The pair’s success is a testament to their talent, dedication, and the strong partnership they’ve forged. Their journey is far from over, and the skating world will be watching with anticipation to see what they achieve next. The 2026 ISU World Figure Skating Championships have undoubtedly marked a new chapter in the history of ice dance, and Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron are at the forefront of this exciting evolution.
Next Up: The ISU will announce the schedule for the 2026-2027 Grand Prix series in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to Archysport for updates and coverage of the upcoming season.
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