It was a roller coaster ride for United States figure skater Ilia Malinin in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
Malinin won a gold medal in his Winter Games debut, helping lead Team USA to victory in the team competition.
Unfortunately for the 21-year-old, it all came crashing down for him in the individual event. After turning in an inspired routine in the short program, Malinin faltered in the free skate. He fell twice, later admitting that he let his nerves get to him as he took the ice.
Malinin was expected to cruise to a gold medal in the singles event, but the shocking turn of events saw him finish eighth overall.
James Lang-Imagn Images
Malinin is still riding the post-Olympic hype. He wasted no time after Italy, heading to Zurich for the Art on Ice gala with some of the top figure skaters in the world.
The Fairfax, Virginia native has since returned to the U.S. following his work trip to Switzerland. On Wednesday, news emerged about Malinin’s personal decision. Car dealership Honda of Chantilly in Virginia shared a photo of the three-time Grand Prix Final champion with his new SUV.
In the photo, Malinin is seen standing beside a brand-new Honda Passport.
“We were honored to have one of Team USA’s brightest stars stop by the showroom. Thank you for choosing Honda of Chantilly for your new ride,” posted the dealership.
Congratulations poured in for Malinin following his decision to get a new vehicle.
“Congratulations to Olympic Gold Medalist Ilia Malinin on driving home his new Honda Passport from Honda of Chantilly! 🥇⛸️🚗” Honda wrote.
“Nice Quad G0d car 🖤💛” a comment on Instagram read.
“Congrats ice prince,” said another.
“Congrats!😉😊 Quad Car! 😁” a reaction read.
“Congratulations, he definitely deserves it👏💕” a user posted.
“Congratulations to our King 👑❤️” a fan wrote.
The Quad God won’t have much time to enjoy his new wheels. Malinin is currently preparing for the World Figure Skating Championships, which are scheduled for March 24 to 29 in Prague, Czech Republic.
Malinin will be leaving the U.S. again soon as he looks to make it three straight Worlds titles in this year’s competition.
