Malinin Leads Grand Prix Final; Chock and Bates Dominate Ice Dance

American Ilia Malinin takes commanding lead in men's event, while Madison Chock and Evan Bates shine in rhythm dance at Grenoble competition.

Ilia Malinin of the U.S. scored 105.43 in a near-flawless short program, securing a 12-point lead in the men's event at the ISU Grand Prix Final.
In ice dance, Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the U.S. lead after the rhythm dance with 87.73 points, followed by Italy's Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri in second place.
Canadian ice dancers Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier, former champions, placed last in the rhythm dance after an uncharacteristic fall, scoring 72.15.
Germany's Minerva Fabienne Hase and Nikita Volodin defended their pairs title with a total score of 218.10, becoming the first repeat champions since 2012.
The competition continues Saturday with the free skate programs and ice dance final, where standings will be decided.