Maia Shibutani: Resilience, Rhythm, and a Comeback Aimed at Milano Cortina 2026

Maia Shibutani rose with her brother, Alex, from junior prodigies to Olympic medalists, called the “Shib Sibs.” They claimed two bronze medals at PyeongChang 2018 (ice dance and the team event), the first ice dancers of Asian descent to reach an Olympic podium. 

Late in 2019, Maia underwent surgery to remove a malignant kidney tumor. The news paused their competitive career and redirected their energy to recovery and creative work (books, media, choreography). By 2024 she told reporters she was healthy and doing well, a vital step before any return.

On May 1, 2025, the Shibutanis confirmed they’re returning to competition for the 2025–26 Olympic season, training with Marina Zoueva and Massimo Scali, an eye-catching comeback after seven years away. 

Figure skating at Milano Cortina 2026 is scheduled for the Milano Ice Skating Arena (Mediolanum/Unipol Forum) over twelve days of competition, familiar ice for top events, now rebranded for the Games. For returning veterans, that means adapting quickly to Olympic pacing and pressure in a venue built for big atmospheres. 

Maia’s edge quality, musicality, and unison with Alex made their skating read clean and confident with precision patterns, crisp turns, and storytelling programs that scored consistently well at worlds and the Games. Those fundamentals age well: if the lifts regain full amplitude and levels, the technical base can carry them back into contention.