As the world gears up for the much-anticipated ISU World Figure Skating Championships 2025, excitement is building in Boston, where the event will unfold from March 27 to March 31. This prestigious competition not only determines the best skaters worldwide but also serves as a preliminary round for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in February 2026.
Maruhan Corporation, a leading player in the entertainment industry with a focus on pachinko halls, has stepped up as an official sponsor for this grand event. Announced on March 25, 2025, at 11:05 AM, the sponsorship underscores Maruhan's commitment to supporting sports that bring joy and inspiration to athletes and fans alike.
From Japan, a strong contingent of skaters is set to take the ice. The men's team features standout athletes like Yuma Kagiyama, Shun Sato, and Tatsuya Tsuboi. Meanwhile, the women’s side will see competitors such as Hana Sakamoto, Rion Sumiyoshi, and Marin Honda. In pairs, champions Riku Miura & Ryuichi Kihara and Haruna Murakami & Sumitada Moriguchi will showcase their talents. Ice dance duo Utana Yoshida & Masaya Morita will also represent Japan, highlighting the nation's commitment to excellence in figure skating.
The competition schedule, as announced by Fuji Television, promises thrilling moments for fans. Viewers can catch the Men's Short Program and Women's Short Program on March 28 from 7:00 PM to 8:54 PM, followed by the Men's Free and Women's Free on March 30 from 7:00 PM to 9:48 PM. The excitement continues with pair skating and ice dance airing on April 4 and 5, allowing audiences to celebrate the skill and artistry of these athletes.
Hana Sakamoto, who is tantalizingly close to making history with a potential fourth consecutive title, has been hard at work. Having practiced on March 25, she executed a series of complex jumps during her training, including a challenging three-rotation jump. If successful, Sakamoto could become the first female skater since Carol Heiss to achieve four consecutive titles, a feat not accomplished in 66 years.
Alongside her, skaters like Rion Sumiyoshi are also looking to make a mark. Sumiyoshi impressed during practice with a three-rotation jump that showcased her growth and readiness for the forthcoming competition. The Japanese team's official practice is scheduled for March 26 at 2:45 PM, setting the stage for their short program set to take place at noon the next day.
As the skaters prepare, the importance of presentation cannot be understated. An intriguing aspect of competitive figure skating is the role of makeup in boosting athletes' confidence. KOSE, a major cosmetics company, has been a long-time partner in supporting skaters. Their involvement highlights how makeup can enhance performance on the ice, giving skaters the confidence they need to shine.
Makeup artist Issei Ishii is tasked with designing looks that complement the athletes' performances, enhancing their presence and projection on the ice. Ishii emphasizes that each design must reflect the skater's music and costume, ensuring every detail adds to the overall impact. In the past, athletes have noted how having professional makeup can significantly influence their mindset, bringing a sense of empowerment alongside their athletic skills.
Specifically, junior champion Junka Kanazawa has shared her thoughts on the importance of appearance, stating that looking good can improve performance and boost morale. Meanwhile, skater Moene Chiba expressed gratitude for the professional guidance she receives, learning techniques that help her achieve a polished look on her own.
As these athletes prepare to take the ice, the stakes are high—not just for medals but for Olympic qualification. Japan aims to secure as many as three slots for the Olympics, contingent on the combined ranking of its top two skaters being within a cumulative score of 13 or less. This ambitious target highlights the competitive nature of the championships.
The challenge ahead is formidable as the competition unfolds on March 26, with skaters showcasing their talents under the watchful eyes of judges and fans alike. The success of the journey will depend on their preparation, artistry, and the support surrounding them—from corporate sponsors like Maruhan and KOSE to their dedicated coaching staff.
Fans are encouraged to tune in and follow the exciting events leading to the culmination of the championship, where both emerging and seasoned talents will battle for glory. The blending of athleticism and artistry will be on full display, and the accomplishments of these exceptional athletes promise to leave a lasting impact on the world of figure skating.
The world will be watching as the athletes grace the ice, not just as competitors but as emblematic figures of their culture and sport. Their performances will undoubtedly resonate with countless fans and inspire future generations of skaters around the globe.
