“‘Cinderella’ was a program I really loved, so not being able to skate to it is very disappointing.” Ami Nakai on not being able to reuse her FP from the previous season due to copyright issues
Ami Nakai overcomes challenges in pursuit of Milano-Cortina Olympics
original source: Nikkansports dd. July 5th 2025 by Matsumoto Wataru
Ami Nakai (17), the bronze medalist at the 2023 World Junior Championships, embarking on her first senior season in figure skating, is determined to navigate obstacles and aim for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. Here’s a translation of his comments posted on Nikkansports.
On July 5, Nakai attended the “Olympic Strategy Camp” at Kansai Airport Ice Arena in Osaka, which is part of the All-Japan Senior Training Camp. “First, I want to put on good performances in the two Grand Prix (GP) series events,” Nakai shared, turning her focus to the major competitions beginning in October.
Nakai faced a significant setback off the ice. About two weeks ago, she learned that her planned free skate program “Cinderella,” which she intended to reuse from the previous season, could not be used due to copyright issues. To address this, a new program is set to be choreographed domestically in mid-July, leaving her free skate currently undecided.
While her first competition was initially scheduled for July, it will likely be postponed to events starting in August. “‘Cinderella’ was a program I really loved, so not being able to skate to it is very disappointing,” Nakai admitted honestly.
This situation reflects broader changes in copyright enforcement, as issues with unauthorized use by international skaters have led to stricter adherence to permission protocols in Japan this season. However, delays in the rights clearance process have caused widespread confusion, including rejected applications.
Still she tries to stay positive. “Since this is my senior debut, I don’t want to put too much pressure on myself. I want to enjoy every competition,” Nakai said determinedly.
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