French coach Benoit Richaud has captured attention at the 2026 Winter Olympics for his extensive role coaching 16 figure skaters from 13 countries, requiring him to frequently change national team jackets during competitions.
During the men’s short programme on Tuesday evening, viewers were amused to see Richaud wearing the jackets of both France and Georgia for back-to-back skaters. Richaud, a 38-year-old coach and choreographer, is overseeing 16 skaters at the Games, with these athletes hailing from 13 different nations. Seven of his charges competed in the men’s short programme, though official records listed him as coach for only four: Max Naumov of the United States, Stephen Gogolev of Canada, Adam Siao Him Fa of France, and Nika Egadze of Georgia.
The logistical challenge was most apparent when Siao Him Fa and Egadze performed consecutively in 25th and 26th places. Richaud had to execute a quick jacket change between their routines, a task he manages with help from team leaders or national managers who store the jackets. He described the process as demanding, both organizationally and emotionally, as he must fully support each skater in turn.
Richaud’s prominence in the sport is no surprise given his credentials. As a skater, he won the Junior French Championships in 2005-06 and later placed third at the senior level. Transitioning to coaching, he earned the Best Figure Skater Choreographer award at the 2024 ISU Skating Awards and was shortlisted again in 2025. His ability to attract top talent from diverse countries underscores his reputation.
The emotional toll is significant, Richaud admitted. When one athlete skates poorly and another excels, the rapid shift in emotions can be overwhelming. He joked that his usual black attire has given way to a colorful array of national jackets, surprising those who know him.
This cross-national coaching is permitted under Olympic rules, which allow coaches to work with athletes from multiple countries, even in direct competition. Figure skating often sees such arrangements, as skaters seek the best available coaching regardless of nationality. Richaud’s case highlights the globalized nature of elite sports training.
Earlier in the Games, during Sunday’s team event, Richaud was spotted supporting Egadze in a Georgia jacket, then minutes later cheering for Gogolev in a Canada jacket. This repeated visibility has made him a familiar face to regular viewers.
Looking ahead, Richaud’s athletes continue to compete, with Siao Him Fa positioned third and in medal contention for the upcoming free skate. His role exemplifies the collaborative ethos of the Olympics, where coaching expertise benefits athletes worldwide, transcending national boundaries for the pursuit of excellence.
