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Hase & Dalhausser Win Bronze, Symbolizing Resilience

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, March 11th 2026 at 13:16 GMT by The Straits Times
      Locales: GERMANY, KAZAKHSTAN

Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg - Fabienne Hase and her partner, Paul Martin Dalhausser, secured a well-deserved bronze medal at the ISU European Figure Skating Championships on Sunday, March 10th, 2026. While the victory itself is noteworthy, the story behind Hase's success is one of remarkable resilience, a powerful testament to overcoming personal hardship and a clear signal of a brighter future in her skating career. Hase's playful quip, "It doesn't suck at all," delivered with a grin after their performance, carries a weight of meaning far beyond a simple expression of satisfaction.

Hase's journey to this moment has been anything but straightforward. The bronze medal isn't just a sporting achievement; it's a symbolic victory over a deeply painful chapter in her life. The skater previously competed with Ruben Volodin, a partnership that ultimately dissolved amidst allegations of emotional abuse leveled by Hase. The fallout was significant, leading to a protracted legal battle that further complicated matters.

The details of the accusations against Volodin, which surfaced in late 2024, were deeply troubling, highlighting the often-hidden pressures and potential for abusive dynamics within the high-stakes world of competitive figure skating. While the legal proceedings remain confidential, the public accounts painted a picture of a highly competitive environment where emotional manipulation and control were allegedly used. This case sparked a wider conversation about athlete welfare, the responsibility of governing bodies to protect competitors, and the need for increased mental health support within the sport.

For Hase, the transition from a fraught partnership with Volodin to a thriving collaboration with Dalhausser represents a profound personal and professional transformation. The pair's performance on Sunday reflected not only their technical skill but also a palpable connection and mutual respect - qualities that were reportedly absent in Hase's previous partnership. Their free skate, scoring a commendable 135.68 points (72.81 technical and 62.87 program component), demonstrated a cohesive and captivating routine. Although a minor stumble on a lift briefly threatened their momentum, they quickly recovered, showcasing their composure and ability to perform under pressure.

"We went into this competition with a lot of pressure," Hase acknowledged. "It's been a tough season for us, but we've put in a lot of work, and I'm very happy with the outcome." Dalhausser echoed her sentiments, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to skate alongside Hase. "I'm just happy to be here and to be competing with Fabienne. We have a good connection, and that's what makes it special."

The significance of this medal extends beyond the individual achievement of Hase and Dalhausser. It sends a powerful message to athletes who may be experiencing similar challenges - that healing is possible, and that success can be found even after enduring difficult circumstances. Experts in athlete psychology suggest that the ability to redefine oneself after trauma is crucial for long-term well-being and performance. Hase's open acknowledgment of her past, combined with her evident joy in her current partnership, suggests a healthy and positive approach to moving forward.

Looking ahead, Hase and Dalhausser are poised to become a formidable force in the world of figure skating. With the World Championships looming next month, and the 2028 Winter Olympics on the horizon, the pair has a clear trajectory for continued growth and success. However, the focus is not solely on medals. The pair have publicly committed to advocating for athlete safety and mental health awareness, intending to use their platform to create a more supportive and inclusive environment within the sport. This commitment elevates their achievement beyond the realm of athletic prowess, positioning them as role models for aspiring skaters and champions of positive change. The bronze in Luxembourg is therefore not just a testament to their skill, but a beacon of hope and resilience for athletes everywhere.