Prague – Olympic champions Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron of France are in a commanding position at the 2026 ISU Figure Skating World Championships in Prague, Czech Republic. Following a record-breaking performance in the rhythm dance on Friday, the pair heads into Saturday’s free dance with a six-point lead over their nearest competitors, Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier of Canada. This competition marks their attempt to add a world title to their Olympic gold, a feat Cizeron has achieved five times previously, while Fournier Beaudry seeks her first world championship.
The French duo, who captivated audiences at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, are the only Olympic champions competing in the ice dance event in Prague. Cizeron acknowledged the pressure that comes with being the favorites, stating, “As competitors, we are hunters of medals. It’s certain that we are the favorites, so there is a little less pressure.”
Record-Setting Rhythm Dance Performance
Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron set a new personal best in the rhythm dance, scoring 92.74 points. This surpasses their previous best of 90.18 points achieved at the Olympic Games. Their performance, set to Madonna’s “Vogue,” was a clear standout, establishing a significant advantage heading into the free dance. The performance showcased their artistry and technical skill, solidifying their status as frontrunners in the competition.
The World Championships represent a continuation of their successful partnership. The pair’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality performances under pressure has become a hallmark of their career. Their focus now shifts to maintaining their lead and delivering another strong performance in the free dance.
What to Expect in the Free Dance
The free dance promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the ice dance competition. Gilles and Poirier will undoubtedly be looking to close the gap, and other teams will be vying for a spot on the podium. The competition is fierce, and any misstep could prove costly.
For Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron, the key will be to maintain their composure and execute their program cleanly. Their experience and technical prowess will be crucial in navigating the pressure of the moment. A strong performance in the free dance would not only secure them the world title but also further cement their legacy as one of the top ice dance teams in history.
The stakes are high as Fournier Beaudry aims for her first world title, complementing Cizeron’s impressive five previous world championship victories. The dynamic between the two skaters is a key element of their success, and their ability to function together seamlessly is evident in their performances.
How to Watch the Free Dance
Fans can watch the free dance program of the World Figure Skating Championships live on Saturday, March 28th. The event will be broadcast on Eurosport 1 starting at 18:25 (6:25 PM CET) and on France 2 starting at 20:50 (8:50 PM CET). This provides ample opportunity for fans across Europe and beyond to witness the culmination of the ice dance competition.
For those following from other time zones, please check local listings for broadcast times. The championships are a major event in the figure skating calendar, attracting a global audience eager to see the world’s best skaters compete.
The World Championships in Prague are drawing to a close, with Kaori Sakamoto of Japan having already secured her fourth world title in the women’s competition on Friday. The focus now shifts to the ice dance free dance, where Fournier Beaudry and Cizeron will glance to complete their quest for a world championship title.
Following the free dance, the competition will conclude with the pairs and men’s events, bringing the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships to a close. The event has showcased the incredible talent and dedication of figure skaters from around the world, and the performances in Prague are sure to be remembered for years to reach.
The next confirmed checkpoint is the conclusion of the men’s free skate on Sunday, March 29th, which will determine the final medal standings for the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage and analysis.
What are your predictions for the free dance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
