Dutch Pair Skating Duo Makes History at the Winter Olympics
The Netherlands is making its debut in pair skating at the 2026 Winter Olympics, thanks to the groundbreaking achievements of Daria Danilova and Michel Tsiba. This marks a historic moment for Dutch figure skating, as the duo became the first pair skating team from the Netherlands to qualify for the Games.
A Unique Partnership
Daria Danilova, originally from Moscow, Russia, now competes for the Netherlands. She began skating at the age of three and transitioned to pair skating in 2018, teaming up with Dutch skater Michel Tsiba. Danilova became a naturalized Dutch citizen on February 16, 2024 [1]. Tsiba previously competed in single skating before joining forces with Danilova.
National and International Success
Danilova and Tsiba have consistently demonstrated their skill and dedication, earning them numerous accolades. They are three-time Dutch national champions, securing titles in 2020, 2022, and 2025 [1]. Their success extends beyond national borders, with a victory at the 2024 Bavarian Open and a championship at the 2022 NRW Trophy [1]. They have also earned two silver medals at the International Challenge Cup, in 2022 and 2025 [1]. They have competed in the final segment of three European Championships and four World Championships, and are the first Dutch pair to qualify for the World Championships [1].
Personal Bests
As of November 2024, Danilova and Tsiba have achieved a personal best total score of 178.37 at the NHK Trophy [4]. Their personal best short program score is 61.24, achieved at the 2023 World Championships [4], and their best free program score is 119.47, set at the 2024 NHK Trophy [4].
Looking Ahead
With their Olympic qualification secured, Danilova and Tsiba are poised to represent the Netherlands on the world’s biggest stage. Their journey exemplifies dedication, perseverance, and the power of international collaboration in the world of figure skating. Their coach, Fedor Klimov, is a 2014 Olympic and World Pairs silver medalist [3].