Deanna Stellato-Dudek Cleared to Compete at the Winter Olympics

Winnipeg – In a heartwarming turn of events, figure skaters Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps have received medical clearance to compete in the pairs competition at the Winter Olympics, the Canadian Olympic Committee announced Tuesday. This news comes after a period of uncertainty following an injury sustained by Stellato-Dudek during training.

The incident occurred on January 30th in Quebec, where Stellato-Dudek unfortunately hit her head on the ice. As a result, the duo was forced to withdraw from the team competition just days before its commencement. The COC confirmed that Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps were under daily medical assessment to determine their ability to participate in the pairs event, scheduled for February 15-16.

“I want to thank everyone for their concern and support,” Stellato-Dudek stated in a release. “I’ve been working closely with the medical team, and feel ready and excited to compete. My priority right now is skating my best. Maxime and I respectfully ask the media to allow us space to focus on the competition.”

A Journey to the Olympics

This Olympics marks a particularly significant milestone for Stellato-Dudek, 42, and Deschamps, 34, as it will be their first time competing on the Olympic stage. Stellato-Dudek, originally from Chicago, proudly became a Canadian citizen in December 2024, paving the way for her to represent Canada at the Games.

The pair achieved a remarkable victory together, winning gold at the 2024 World Championships. However, the current season has presented its challenges. They finished last in the six-team Grand Prix Finals and secured a runner-up position to Lia Pereira and Trennt Michaud at the Canadian Championships.

Stellato-Dudek’s skating journey is one of remarkable resilience. A former singles skater, she retired in 2000 due to a series of injuries. She made a triumphant return to the sport in 2016, eventually partnering with Deschamps in 2019.

Other Canadian News

In other Canadian Olympic news, the Canadian short-track speedskating mixed team secured a silver medal at Milano Cortina 2026, marking Canada’s first medal of the Games. CBC Sports provides further details on this exciting achievement.

Meanwhile, political discussions are underway with the Conservatives planning a motion to bar non-citizens convicted of serious crimes from making refugee claims. Prime Minister Mark Carney also addressed concerns with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the Gordie Howe International Bridge. The Globe and Mail offers comprehensive coverage of these developments.