Benoît Richaud, a French figure skating coach, has unexpectedly become a star at the 2026 Winter Olympics—not through athletic prowess, but through a peculiar habit: changing into the jacket of each team he coaches as they compete. This seemingly minor detail has captivated viewers worldwide, turning the stoic coach into an overnight internet sensation.
The Rise of the Jacket-Switching Coach
Richaud currently works with 16 skaters from 13 nations, and his presence on the rink’s edge has become a running joke among Olympic viewers. The coach, always maintaining the same serious expression, seamlessly blends in with each team by donning their jacket in the “kiss and cry” area. The sheer frequency of his jacket swaps—and the fact that he coaches so many athletes—quickly caught the attention of the online world.
“I actually coach a lot more of them,” Richaud explains, implying his influence extends beyond the qualified Olympians. This wide reach demonstrates the demand for his expertise in a sport where choreography and performance are paramount.
The Logistics of Coaching Multiple Olympians
Coaching such a large roster requires meticulous planning. Richaud’s peak creation period falls between the World Championships (typically in March) and July, allowing him to develop new routines. He then collaborates with skaters, assessing their current skill level and aspirations. The coach adapts to his athletes’ needs, whether traveling to them or utilizing modern technology.
“It is very useful because today, with the phone and new technologies, we can do much more and do it much faster,” he notes. Daily program updates allow him to refine choreography on the fly, maximizing effectiveness.
The Emotional Toll of High-Stakes Competition
Despite his calm demeanor, Richaud admits that coaching at the Olympics is emotionally draining. The highs and lows are intense, as he witnesses skaters rise and fall in moments. One skater went from medal contention to missing the podium, while another, a debutant, nearly clinched a bronze.
“It’s difficult,” Richaud says. “Because you experience these waves of very strong emotions.” He maintains impartiality, giving each skater his full commitment, balancing joy and disappointment.
A Viral Moment for Figure Skating
Richaud’s fame was unintentional. He initially dismissed the viral videos as “funny,” but they spread rapidly across social media. He hopes this newfound attention will boost the sport’s visibility.
“Figure skating isn’t quite as popular on social media as it could be,” Richaud argues. “By going viral, he hopes to bring more attention to the sport, which he calls “one of the most beautiful in the world.”
Ultimately, the jacket-switching coach has inadvertently become a symbol of figure skating’s dedication and emotional intensity. His story highlights how even the most understated roles in elite sports can capture the public’s imagination, bringing attention to a sport deserving of greater recognition.
