Ice Dancers Shibutani Siblings Overcome Controversy at NHK Trophy

The world of ice dancing was recently shaken when a video surfaced of Alex Shibutani seemingly losing his temper during practice, directing an expletive-laden rant at his younger sister, Maia. Despite the backlash, both siblings have spoken openly about the incident, showing that their bond remains strong.

Video Controversy and Apologies

The video, which went viral last month, portrayed a moment of frustration for Alex during training. Addressing the incident, he expressed regret, stating:

“I feel terrible about it. Unfortunately, I lost my temper in training, and it shouldn’t have happened.”

He quickly apologized to Maia following the incident, emphasizing the need for better communication between them.

Maia’s Response

In light of the video, Maia voiced her perspective on the situation:

“When you are working toward being your best, there are going to be intense moments. But for us, we understand each other and the process and we work through it together like siblings do.”

This highlights the Shibutanis’ ability to navigate the highs and lows of their competitive journey.

NHK Trophy Performance

Currently competing at the NHK Trophy in Osaka, part of the ISU Grand Prix Series, the Shibutanis secured a sixth-place finish in the rhythm dance event. This competition marks a significant comeback after a seven-year hiatus, as the pair aims to qualify for the upcoming 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.

Credentials of the Shib Sibs

• Three-time World Championship Medalists
• Two-time Olympians
  • Finished ninth at the 2014 Sochi Olympics
  • Won a bronze medal at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics

The Shibutani siblings have a rich history in ice dancing and are known for their synergy on the ice, consistently delivering captivating performances.

Taking a Break for Health and Education

After their success at the 2018 Olympics, Alex and Maia stepped away from elite-level competition to focus on personal growth and education. Their break was extended due to Maia’s health crisis when she was diagnosed with a malignant tumor on her kidney in 2019. After undergoing surgery and treatment, Maia made a successful recovery, allowing the duo to return to the rink.

A Future of Teamwork and Resilience

Both Alex and Maia acknowledge the pressures of high-level competition but are committed to supporting each other through it all. Alex stated:

“I’m so lucky to skate with Maia. We have a very unique, special relationship and we are committed to each other and to this process.”

This sentiment reflects their dedication not only to their sport but also to their sibling bond.

Conclusion

As they continue their journey towards the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Shibutanis exemplify resilience and teamwork. With their strong foundational relationship, they are likely to overcome challenges both on and off the ice.

For more about the Shibutani siblings and their ice dancing journey, check USA Figure Skating for updates and insights.