Hase and Volodin Capture World Figure Skating Gold: What’s Next for the German Pair?

Prague – In a stunning display of athleticism and artistry, German pair skaters Minerva Hase and Nikita Volodin have been crowned world champions at the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships in Prague. The victory, secured on Thursday evening, marks a career high for the duo and delivers Germany its first world title in pair skating since Aljona Savchenko and Bruno Massot triumphed in 2018. But amidst the celebrations, a familiar question lingers: will this be a triumphant peak, or the start of a new chapter for the pair?

The journey to the top hasn’t been conventional. Both Hase and Volodin had, at one point, resigned themselves to the possibility that their competitive skating careers were over. As their coach, Knut Schubert, position it, “They needed each other to shine.” Another coach, Dimitri Sawin, added, “They have the same soul.” Their partnership, formed just three and a half years ago, has been a rapid ascent, culminating in Olympic bronze in Milan earlier this year and now, this World Championship title.

A Championship Earned

The German pair finished with a total score of 228.33 points, edging out European champions Anastasia Metelkina and Luka Berulawa of Georgia (218.41 points) and Canadians Lia Pereira and Trennt Michaud (216.09 points). While Hase stumbled slightly on a triple Salchow during their free skate, opening the jump after two and a half rotations, the overall performance was strong enough to secure the gold. The performance ignited the Prague arena, drawing a standing ovation from the crowd of 13,500 spectators.

This victory comes just weeks after the pair secured bronze at the Winter Olympics in Italy. The duo’s performance in Prague demonstrated resilience and a continued ability to perform under pressure. Annika Hocke and Robert Kunkel as well contributed to the German success, improving from tenth to seventh place with a total score of 194.11 points.

The Question of the Future

The question of whether Hase and Volodin will continue skating together was immediately raised following their victory, echoing similar inquiries after their Olympic success. After winning bronze in Milan, Hase stated they would “enjoy the summer” and assess their options. This ambiguity fueled speculation about a potential retirement.

The 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps loom large in the conversation. Both skaters would be 30 years ancient at that time, an age that doesn’t necessarily preclude continued success in pair skating. The decision hinges on their motivation and the support they receive.

Volodin, speaking immediately after the win, offered a cautious response when asked about their future. “We don’t know,” he said, adding with a hint of optimism, “But maybe, maybe it can be a start.” Hase elaborated, stating they would use the coming months, which include numerous show commitments, to reflect on their needs and desires. “We will talk with our team, with the federation and everyone who supports us and see how and if it continues. We are keeping it open.”

A Boost for German Figure Skating

A decision to retire would be a significant blow to German figure skating, which has found renewed excitement with Hase and Volodin’s success. Their performances have captured the attention of the German public and generated increased media coverage. Hase and Volodin’s success, alongside the promising performances of Hocke and Kunkel, is revitalizing the sport in Germany.

The enthusiastic support from German fans in Prague was palpable. “A huge, huge thank you to all the German fans who came here especially for us,” Hase said in German to the arena crowd. “You gave us the strength and energy.”

Hase also emphasized the importance of continued support for the sport in Germany. “It’s great to be part of a team that is bringing figure skating out of the shadows and back onto the stage. We see the increased interest on social media, but it was even more special here live. We hope that One can maintain the hype in Germany and make the sport big again, so that the sponsorship situation for the athletes also improves.”

The financial stability of the German skating program is a key factor in their decision. Hase previously highlighted concerns about the future of the Berlin training center, which is crucial for their continued development. A decision regarding the status of the Berlin base, alongside Dortmund and Oberstdorf, is expected from the German federal government later this year.

An Unlikely Partnership

The story of Hase and Volodin is one of second chances. They first connected in the summer of 2022, both seeking a new partner after facing setbacks in their previous careers. Volodin lacked Olympic experience, while Hase’s previous partnership with Nolan Seegert had been disrupted by the pandemic. Their union proved to be a perfect match.

Sawin, the coach who brought them together, believed in their potential from the start. “They believe in themselves and in each other,” he said. “Even before they met for the first time, I knew it would work.”

The pair’s rapid rise has been remarkable: World Championship bronze in 2024, World Championship silver and European gold in 2025, European silver, Olympic bronze, and now, the 2026 World Championship title. The question now is whether they will continue to build on this success, or whether this World Championship gold will serve as a fitting finale to their inspiring partnership.

For now, Hase and Volodin are enjoying the moment, basking in the glow of their world championship victory. The future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: they have left an indelible mark on the world of figure skating.

What’s Next: Hase and Volodin will participate in a series of shows throughout May. A decision regarding their future competitive plans is expected later this year, following discussions with their team and the German skating federation.

What do you think? Will Hase and Volodin continue their partnership? Share your thoughts in the comments below!