The pairs free skate played a decisive role in the figure skating team event at the 2026 Winter Olympics, as Japan’s Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara delivered the top performance in the segment. Their result reduced the points advantage held by the United States late in the competition.
Miura and Kihara competed against pairs from the United States, Italy, Canada, and Georgia. Their skate earned the highest placement points in the pairs free skate discipline, improving Japan’s overall position in the team standings.
Miura and Kihara Lead the Pairs Free Skate Segment
In the pairs free skate, Miura and Kihara produced a clean and controlled program. They finished ahead of all other competing teams in that segment. The result added maximum points to Japan’s team total.
Their placement directly affected the leaderboard after six of the eight total segments in the team event had been completed. The performance narrowed the margin separating Japan and the United States.
Impact of the Pairs Free Skate on Team Standings
Following the pairs free skate, the United States remained in first place, but its lead over Japan was reduced. The gap between the two teams became slim with only the men’s free skate and women’s free skate remaining.
Japan’s improved standing was largely attributed to the points gained in the pairs free skate. Other teams remained in contention, but the competition centered on the battle between Japan and the United States.
Background of the Japanese Pairs Team
Miura and Kihara entered the Olympics as established competitors. They have won multiple international titles and world championship medals as a pair. The duo has represented Japan together since 2019.
The Olympic figure skating team event combines results from pairs skating, ice dance, men’s singles, and women’s singles. Points are awarded based on placements in each segment, with cumulative totals determining final medal positions.
After the pairs free skate, Japan remained within reach of the top position heading into the final events.
