Olympic Ice Dancer Paul Poirier Announces Engagement to Longtime Boyfriend

Paul Poirier, the acclaimed Canadian Olympic ice dancer, has made headlines off the rink this week by announcing his engagement to longtime boyfriend, Kevin. The news broke on July 31, 2025, when Poirier took to Instagram to share a candid, joy-filled photo of the couple and the caption: “We did a thing 💛 (he said yes)” . The post was quickly met with an outpouring of love and congratulations from fans, fellow athletes, and LGBTQ+ advocates across social media platforms.

The announcement was further confirmed by several LGBTQ+ news outlets, who reported that the couple’s engagement was celebrated in a “cute and low-key” fashion, reflective of their private yet deeply loving relationship . According to media reports, the proposal took place in an intimate setting, highlighting the pair’s preference for authenticity and simplicity .

Poirier’s engagement is especially significant given his status as one of the few openly gay male athletes in elite figure skating. Throughout his career, he has been vocal about the importance of LGBTQ+ visibility in sport, often using his platform to advocate for greater inclusion and representation. His decision to share this personal milestone publicly continues that legacy, sending a powerful message about the value of living authentically, both on and off the ice .

In interviews, Poirier has spoken candidly about the challenges and rewards of being out in the competitive world of figure skating. “My journey has always been about embracing who I am, and I hope that by being open, I can help others feel seen and accepted,” he shared in a previous conversation with The Pink News .

The engagement has been widely celebrated within the LGBTQ+ sports community. Messages of support have poured in from fellow athletes, advocacy groups, and fans around the world. Many have noted the symbolic importance of Poirier’s announcement in a sporting landscape where LGBTQ+ athletes have historically faced barriers to openness and acceptance .

“Paul’s willingness to share his happiness so publicly helps to break down stereotypes and create space for other athletes to be themselves,” commented a spokesperson for Athlete Ally, a leading LGBTQ+ advocacy organization in sports .

Poirier’s engagement also comes at a time when visibility for LGBTQ+ athletes is increasing, but challenges remain. Initiatives to support LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports have gained traction in recent years, but advocates emphasize the continued need for representation at all levels of competition. Poirier’s joyful news serves as a reminder of the progress made, as well as the work that remains to ensure that all athletes can participate in sport without fear of discrimination.

Professionally, Poirier remains at the top of his sport. Alongside his ice dance partner, Piper Gilles, he continues to compete at the highest level, with their sights set on the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina . The pair recently medaled at the 2024 World Championships and are considered strong contenders for Olympic qualification.

As Poirier and Kevin celebrate this new chapter, the outpouring of support from both the skating world and the wider LGBTQ+ community underscores the ongoing importance of visibility, acceptance, and love. For many, Poirier’s engagement is not only a personal milestone but also a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ youth and aspiring athletes everywhere.