Shibutani siblings speak out against racism ahead of Olympics return

Two-time Olympic bronze medalists Maia and Alex Shibutani have returned to competitive figure skating after a seven-year hiatus, aiming to qualify for the 2026 Winter Games in Milan. In a recent interview with Time, the siblings explained that their comeback follows years of grappling with racial stereotypes and underrepresentation in a sport shaped by Eurocentric traditions. Their new programs reflect a deliberate shift in artistic direction, including a rhythm dance inspired by 1990s Tokyo nightlife, as an explicit embrace of their Japanese American identity and cultural experience.

Facing exclusion and challenging stereotypes: The Shibutanis described the burden of navigating a sport that often marginalized teams who did not fit its Eurocentric mold. “There were challenging moments where it felt like we were either othered, or that there were challenges we had to face that maybe we didn’t have the language to describe,” Maia said.

Alex reflected on how their racial identity shaped both perception and judging: “I’ve dealt with more layered, nuanced racism that’s based on stereotypes, such as how Asian skaters are very technically gifted, but expressively lacking in comparison to non-Asian skaters.” He added, “Under the surface, politics, race, all of these things are deeply ingrained into everything… it’s not always an equal playing field.”

Skating with purpose beyond competition: Rather than step away quietly, the siblings have used their platform to advocate for representation and visibility. They co-authored “Amazing and Incredible,” picture books on Asian American trailblazers and have spoken out against anti-Asian hate.

“Our culture was something that clearly made us different from other teams, but with that came a responsibility and we felt the pretty heavy weight of that,” Alex said. “The weight is still there, but it’s something that we’ve been able to grow into… and that’s a whole new power that we have coming into this return.”