Stephen Gogolev Secures Personal Best in Memorable Olympic Debut

London, 8 February 2026 – Canadian figure skater Stephen Gogolev has delivered a career-defining performance at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. The 21-year-old Toronto native, once a child prodigy who faced years of injury setbacks, successfully propelled Team Canada into the figure skating team event final following a spectacular short programme on Saturday.

A Triumphant Return to the Global Stage

Competing in his first Olympic Games, Gogolev scored a personal-best 92.99 points in the men’s short programme. Performing to a “gangster” themed routine complete with a suit and tie, he landed two quadruple jumps to finish third in the segment. This performance was critical for Canada, as the team sat in fifth place heading into the final discipline of the opening round. Gogolev’s eight-point contribution moved Canada into fourth place, safely within the top five teams permitted to advance to the final phase of the competition.

The achievement marks a significant milestone for Gogolev, who has been open about his difficult journey to Milan. After becoming the youngest skater to land various quadruple jumps as a teenager, his progress was hampered by a significant growth spurt and a stress fracture in his lumbar spine. His performance on 7 February 2026 confirms his return to peak physical condition following a period of withdrawal from competition last season.

Key Facts: Stephen Gogolev

The following table outlines the career milestones and personal details of the 2026 Canadian National Champion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Stephen Gogolev’s score in the Olympic team event?

Stephen Gogolev earned a personal-best score of 92.99 points in the men’s short programme during the team event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics.

How did Gogolev’s performance affect Team Canada?

His third-place finish in the short programme provided the necessary points to move Canada from fifth to fourth place, ensuring the team qualified for the final round of the team figure skating event.

What injuries has Stephen Gogolev overcome?

Gogolev has managed several challenges, including a major growth spurt and a stress fracture in his lumbar spine, the latter of which forced him to retreat from several competitions in previous seasons.

Where does Stephen Gogolev train?

While he began his skating career in 2010 and previously trained in Russia under Alexander Tarasov, he is currently associated with the Granite Club in Toronto.