2025-26 Retirements, Splits and New Partnerships

[moonvine]

Unfair characterization if referring to Balazs Nagy. He has simply had bad luck, and seemingly was wrongly swayed by U.S. fed in the promising, but now defunct pairing with Audrey. Shin/ Nagy were physically well-matched. But not in terms of personality, age, and experience. I heard that Nagy would have continued with Maria Pavlova for Hungary, but they faced issues with the Hungarian federation. In any case, Pavlova clearly found her perfect match in Alexei Sviatchenko. I agree with you about Deanna not leaving Canada. But, would Balazs try to switch to Canada? Probably doubtful.

Not unfair from what I’ve heard.

 

[yelyoh]

Not unfair from what I’ve heard.

Do tell!!!

 

[BlissfulSynergy]

How about Balazs and Ellie Kam? Lots of speculation there but I am guessing that Danny O is close to calling it quits competitively on the ice. But if Balazs was willing to come into the Meekins camp, Danny would be a great coach for Balazs and Ellie.

Very true. I agree with your suggestion. I thought about this possibility, especially since Balazs and Audrey were based in Colorado when they weren't training in Canada. Meekins had choreographed for S/N and on occasion coached them, especially prior to U.S. fed sending them to Marcotte. Balazs also successfully trained in Colorado as a junior with his former pairs partner, Kate Finster. They outgrew each other physically. The more I think about Ellie with Balazs, if Danny retires to coach full time, the more I like it.

 

[BlissfulSynergy]

Not unfair from what I’ve heard.

Please, do tell us more, by dm if discretion is desired.

 

[nguyhm]

Very true. I agree with your suggestion. I thought about this possibility, especially since Balazs and Audrey were based in Colorado when they weren't training in Canada. Meekins had choreographed for S/N and on occasion coached them, especially prior to U.S. fed sending them to Marcotte. Balazs also successfully trained in Colorado as a junior with his former pairs partner, Kate Finster. They outgrew each other physically. The more I think about Ellie with Balazs, if Danny retires to coach full time, the more I like it.

I think I like the idea too although it would be hard for me to picture Ellie with anyone else other than Danny (despite their age gap their chemistry is amazing (in a good way)) but if Danny is coaching and can transpire that "caring/nurturing" attitude to Balazs it might work (granted that he will be as patient as Danny has been).

 

[IceDancingQueen]

I'm deducing that this was Dylan's decision from what she said. I really liked them as a team.

Me too - I thought they were a strong pair.

 

[saine]

Katie Shen and Connor O'Grady are a new Pairs team, I'm assuming for the USA.

He last competed in Pairs for France for Ice Challenge in November 2025 with Ninon Dapoigny, so they likely won't be on the JGP if they're competing as Juniors. He has one season left of eligibility.

 

[DemTuppesSeine]

So...the speculations have been going on for a few days, and now it's confirmed - Shin/Nagy have split.

Audrey posted this in her instagram story:

"After a lot of reflection, I have decided to end my skating partnership with Balazs.

This chapter meant a lot to me. I am extremely grateful for all the experiences I got to share with Balazs. Walking away wasn't an easy decision, but over time I realized how important it is to take care of my mental and emotional well-being, not just my performance.

It's strange how memories can blur during difficult periods. When things feel overwhelming, you sometimes focus so much on getting through it that certain moments fade. You hold on to hope and potential, even when you know the situation hasn't really changed. You push through, set your feelings aside, and keep going.

But eventually, you recognize when you've reached your limit.

There were challenges, differences, and lessons that shaped me in ways I didn't expect. Experiences like this can be tough, but they also help clarify what you want moving forward.

To everyone who supported me through both the highs and lows - thank you. Your kindness and belief in me and in the partnership meant a lot. I'm now taking some time to reset and focus on what's next."

 

[BlissfulSynergy]

^^ Yep. The suspected Shin/ Nagy split (known to be true by insiders) was expected to be officially announced sometime toward the end of 2026 Worlds in Prague.

Plus, we've seen the photos and clips (sans Balazs) posted by Natalia at MMPairs training rink in Colorado.

 

[Jumping_Bean]

Hana Yoshida (Japan, women's) has announced her retirement. She has relocated to Australia to attend the University of Melbourne.



I know the past season was a difficult one for her, but this retirement still surprises and saddens me Sending my best wishes to Hana for her academic career

 

[DemTuppesSeine]

Nooo Hana I'm not that surprised but it's still sad

 

[cocteautwin]

Hana Yoshida (Japan, women's) has announced her retirement. She has relocated to Australia to attend the University of Melbourne.

I know the past season was a difficult one for her, but this retirement still surprises and saddens me Sending my best wishes to Hana for her academic career

Sad to hear although not unexpected. She will pursuit education which is always a good thing. She can always reconsider giving skating another try on her own terms (maybe in different discipline) if she wants to at some point. Anyway, I will miss her bright energy and creative programs.

 

[bckabck]

Maybe we'll see Hana along the boards as a coach someday

 

[lileychristie]

Hana Yoshida (Japan, women's) has announced her retirement. She has relocated to Australia to attend the University of Melbourne.

Wow, Melbourne! I wonder if some lucky Melbournians might see her in local ice rinks

I will miss her quirky charm and unique programs, but I wish her all the best with her education and career moving forwards

 

[DemTuppesSeine]

Another split in Canada - what is going on over there??? Sandrine Gauthier and Quentin Thieren have split

 

[saine]

And Alicia Fabbri/Paul Ayer are another split for Canadian Ice Dance

 

[DemTuppesSeine]

WHAT???

 

[cocteautwin]

I didn't expect Alicia and Paul to split, it was kind of their time to lock in after P2 probably retiting.
Anyway, Skate Canada now really have to proritize investing in LaLa and making sure there are not neglected.

 

[Karoltyna]

Ice dance, what are you doing? That was unexpected...

 

[dorispulaski]

They have to stress to LaLa to not accept tripe programs. If IAM won't work, they need to go elsewhere.

I didn't expect Alicia and Paul to split, it was kind of their time to lock in after P2 probably retiting.
Anyway, Skate Canada now really have to proritize investing in LaLa and making sure there are not neglected.