Interview Yanhao Li carves path for figure skating in New Zealand

[gsk8]

Yanhao Li carves path for figure skating in New Zealand

Yanhao Li carves path for figure skating in New Zealand Yanhao Li of New Zealand enters the 2026–27 figure skating season with clear goals on both the

www.goldenskate.com

Yanhao Li has already made history as New Zealand's first skater to qualify for the Winter Youth Olympic Games and the country's first ISU Junior Grand Prix gold medalist. But heading into the 2026–27 season, he says his greatest challenge isn't landing quads—it's learning to trust himself.

In this interview, Li opens up about:

• Making history for New Zealand
• Overcoming the mental side of competition
• His goals for the Junior Grand Prix, World Juniors, and senior Worlds
• Returning to his programs with "unfinished business"
• What it means to help build the future of New Zealand figure skating
• His long-term dream of competing at the 2030 Olympic Winter Games

One quote that stands out:

"I'm not just skating for myself, I'm carving a path for New Zealand figure skating."

What are your expectations for Yanhao this season? Just for fun, what style of music or particular pieces would you like to see him perform to?

 

[ladyjane]

I really hope he manages his mental mindset, and sticks to wanting people to feel something, performance and not just trying to score high. It's difficult of course. I like it too that he comes from a country small in skating. Go-go-go, Yanhao!

 

[elbkup]

Yanhao and his coach together are carving an out a FS legacy for New Zealand admirably. His programs, music choices, costumes are a delight, a skater I look forward to watching every year. His observations are mature insightful, goals ambitious and he will no doubt make his mark for himself and his country in seasons to come. Ready to cheer him on in 2026-27!
He is a nuanced skater, performer.. Would love to see him skate to Manha de Carnival, a Portuguese ballad, sung here by Johnny Mathis.

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[labgoat]

I've been watching Yanhao for a few years. He has such style and personality. I look forward to seeing what he has chosen for this year and how his skating has improved.