Mexican figure skater Donovan Carrillo had an intense debut at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, where he made it clear that his place among the world’s elite is no coincidence. Although a fall in one of his jumps cost him important points, his performance was enough to keep him in the fight to advance to the short program final, one of the main objectives of his Olympic participation.
Carrillo was the fifth competitor to perform during the qualifying round and finished with a score of 75.56 points, a result that included a one-point deduction for poor execution in one of his technical elements. Despite this, at the time of closing his participation he provisionally placed third, reflecting the overall quality of his routine.
A fall that did not slow him down
The most complicated moment of his presentation came during the first Axel triple.
This was when he incorrectly supported the toe of the skate, which caused a stumble that almost ended in a complete fall.
Donovan Carrillo even had to rest his hands on the ice to avoid losing his balance completely, an action that resulted in the penalty.
Far from giving up, the Mexican showed maturity and mental strength.
He resumed the routine with the energy, musicality and charisma that have made him a reference in Latin American figure skating.
His ability to recover was one of the most valued aspects of his presentation.
“I have trained very hard and I deserve to be in that final.”
After his performance, Donovan Carrillo was optimistic and confident that the work done during his preparation will pay off.
The goal is clear: to be among the first 24 places that advance to the short program finals.
I did my job, at least in part
Donovan Carrillo
“One of the jumps got away a little bit, but I remain optimistic.”
“I have trained very hard and I deserve to be in the final,” said the Mexican skater, making it clear that his mentality remains focused on advancing.
A reference for the U.S. Hispanic community.
Beyond the final result, Donovan Carrillo’s presence in Milano-Cortina 2026 has enormous symbolic value for the Hispanic community living in the United States.
This represents perseverance, discipline and the real possibility of competing at the highest level in sports where Latin America has historically had little representation.
With her Olympic debut already accomplished, Carrillo keeps alive the dream of reaching the final and continue writing history for Mexican figure skating.
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