The ISU has published the official 2026/27 Grand Prix series assignments — and the first name in the men's list sent a jolt through the entire figure skating world: Yuzuru Hanyu, Japan. Assigned to the NHK Trophy and the Rostelecom Cup in Finland.
The Third Return
Hanyu announced his retirement twice — in 2022 after the Beijing Olympics and in 2024 after an ice show tour. Both times his return proved louder than his exit. Now — again. Japanese media reported secret training sessions in Toronto as early as May; Hanyu himself stayed silent until the ISU list appeared.
The programme he's reportedly preparing is already tantalising: according to insiders, the free skate is built around the quadruple Axel — the only jump in history that Hanyu has ever executed in competition. No one else has ever landed it at an official event.
Rivals React
Ilia Malinin, the reigning world champion from the US, posted online: "Can't wait. This is the best thing that could have happened to our sport." Shina Ota, Japan's rising star: "I'll be rooting for him and trying to beat him at the same time."
Other Season Assignments
In the women's draw, Alexandra Trusova makes her return — assigned to the Canadian event. Yulia Lipnitskaya will be present as a coach; her student Vera Zaitseva is entered for two events. The World Team Trophy will be held in Tokyo in April 2027.
The season promises to be historic.
