Ami Nakai, 17, led Japan to a historic 1-2-3 finish at the ISU Grand Prix de France in Angers. This impressive podium sweep highlights Japan’s growing strength in international figure skating and sets a confident tone for the upcoming Olympic season. Nakai earned first place with a combined total score of 227.08 points. After leading the short program with 78.00 points, she extended her advantage in the free skate, scoring 149.08 points. Her performance featured a triple Axel attempt and a flawless triple Lutz-triple toe combination. Meanwhile, veteran star Kaori Sakamoto took silver with 224.23 points, while newcomer Rion Sumiyoshi secured bronze with 216.06 points.
The competition took place from October 17 to 19, 2025, in Angers, France. Serving as the first event in the six-leg Grand Prix series for the 2025-26 season, it attracted athletes positioning themselves for the December Grand Prix Final and the Winter Olympics. Angers IceParc hosted skaters from around the world who were eager to kick off the season.
Japan has steadily climbed the ranks in women’s figure skating. Sakamoto, a three-time world champion, has been a key figure. Now, Nakai’s transition from junior to senior signals the arrival of the next generation. Experts point out that Nakai’s fresh talent combined with Sakamoto’s experience creates a strong foundation for Japan’s medal ambitions. Together, both the victory and podium sweep reflect the depth of Japan’s skating program.
Following the competition, officials praised the milestone achievement. A spokesperson from the Japanese skating federation said the sweep “reflects years of investment in youth development and coaching.” Sakamoto described the outcome as “a positive push forward for me and my younger teammates.” Nakai admitted that while she hadn’t expected to win, she plans to focus on consistency and further growth.
The broader implications of the podium sweep are significant. Japan’s dominance increases the marketability of skating events domestically for sponsors and broadcasters. For international competitors, it signals a rise in competition and the need to adjust training and recruitment. Globally, it demonstrates that skating excellence continues to diversify beyond traditional powerhouse countries.
Looking ahead, Nakai and Sakamoto will carry this momentum into upcoming Grand Prix events. Coaches emphasize that managing pressure and expectations will be critical. Especially for Nakai, who just stepped into senior competition this season, maintaining performance and handling the spotlight pose new challenges.
Furthermore, the podium sweep also intensifies pressure on Olympic contenders and fuels speculation about how Japan will compose its national team. With the Winter Games less than four months away, these results could influence team selection, resource allocation, and fan expectations. If Japan builds on this early success, it may reshape the global figure skating hierarchy.ers and fuels speculation on how Japan will compose its national team. With the Winter Games less than four months away, these results could influence team selection, resource allocation, and fan expectations. If Japan builds on this early success, it may reshape the global figure skating hierarchy.
