Gabriella Papadakis Mourns Death of Close Friend & Former Partner Florian

Paris – Olympic gold medalist Gabriella Papadakis has shared a deeply personal and moving tribute following the death of her close friend, Florian. The former ice dancer announced the loss on her social media channels Tuesday, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and fellow athletes.

Papadakis, who with partner Guillaume Cizeron captivated audiences with their artistry on the ice, described Florian as a constant presence in her life for over a decade. “Florian. You were my best friend, my lover, then my best friend again and 14 years later, still one of the most important people in my life,” she wrote in a poignant post accompanied by a series of photos spanning their years of friendship. The message resonated widely, highlighting the profound impact Florian had on the celebrated athlete.

The 2022 Olympic champion, who retired from competitive skating in 2024, continued, “Lives take different paths but nothing erases where they have intertwined.” She expressed a hopeful wish for his peace, adding, “Forever you will be in my heart, in my laughter, in my juices and my couscous. I hope you have found peace on the other side. Always.”

The news comes after Papadakis released her memoir, “Pour ne pas disparaître” (“To Not Disappear”), in 2025. The book offered a candid look into her life, detailing a “tumultuous” relationship with her mother and expressing criticism towards her former skating partner. Sources close to Papadakis have indicated that Florian provided significant support during this challenging period, serving as a trusted confidant as she navigated personal and professional complexities.

Papadakis and Cizeron achieved remarkable success together, including an Olympic gold medal at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games. Their innovative and emotionally resonant performances redefined ice dance, earning them a dedicated global following. While their athletic partnership concluded, the bond between the two remains significant, as they both transition into fresh chapters of their lives.

The loss of Florian underscores the importance of personal connections even amidst the pressures of elite athletic competition. Papadakis’s open expression of grief has resonated with many, demonstrating the universal need for friendship and support. The skating world, and beyond, mourns alongside her.

Papadakis’s post quickly garnered thousands of comments and shares, with fans offering condolences and sharing memories of her and Florian. The outpouring of support highlights the athlete’s widespread appeal and the deep connection she has forged with her audience.

Following her retirement from competitive skating, Papadakis has been exploring other artistic pursuits. Her memoir signals a willingness to share her story on her own terms, and her continued engagement with fans through social media demonstrates a desire to remain connected with those who have supported her throughout her career. The loss of Florian is undoubtedly a painful chapter, but Papadakis’s strength and resilience suggest she will continue to navigate life’s challenges with grace and honesty.

While details surrounding Florian’s passing have not been widely released, Papadakis’s heartfelt message serves as a powerful testament to the enduring power of friendship and the profound impact individuals can have on one another’s lives. The skating community and fans worldwide extend their deepest sympathies to Papadakis during this difficult time.

Gabriella Papadakis is currently focusing on her artistic endeavors following her retirement. No immediate public appearances are scheduled, but updates will be shared via her official social media channels.