by The preview images and official synopsis for Score 18 (Season 2, Episode 5) of the Winter 2026 anime Medalist have been released ahead of its broadcast on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Titled “Smoke Signal,” the episode promises a powerful character moment as Tsukasa faces one of the sport’s elite skaters and pushes himself to the limit.
As the second season continues to explore the intense world of competitive figure skating, this episode focuses on growth, mentorship, and the painful gap between ambition and ability.
Episode 18 Preview — “Smoke Signal”
In Episode 18, Tsukasa unexpectedly encounters Jun Yotaka, a top-tier skater, at the home of Shinichiro Otori. The chance meeting quickly turns into a life-changing moment when Tsukasa is invited to observe Yotaka at the skating rink.
Watching Yotaka’s performance up close leaves Tsukasa stunned by the enormous difference in skill. Determined not to waste the opportunity, he throws himself into practice, desperately attempting to imitate Yotaka’s jumps and techniques.
However, imitation alone is not enough. The episode highlights the physical strain, frustration, and emotional pressure that come with chasing excellence in elite sports.
This intense training sequence is expected to deliver both dramatic animation and deep character development — a hallmark of the series.
About Medalist — A Critically Acclaimed Figure Skating Anime
Medalist is based on the award-winning manga by Tsurumai Ikada, currently serialized in Kodansha’s Afternoon magazine. The series has received major recognition, including:
- 1st place (Comics Category) — Next Manga Awards 2022
- Grand Prize (General Category) — 48th Kodansha Manga Awards
The story has been praised for its realistic depiction of figure skating, emotional storytelling, and compelling mentor-student relationship.
Story Overview — Dreams on Ice
The series follows Yuzuki Inori, a young girl with a burning desire to become a figure skating champion, and Tsukasa Akeuraji, a former skater who becomes her coach despite his own struggles.
Together, they aim to reach the highest levels of the sport — the national championships and beyond.
After earning recognition at events such as the Meiko Cup and the Western Japan Elementary & Junior High School Championships, Inori passes the badge test required to compete at higher levels. This puts her on the same competitive stage as prodigy skater Hikaru Okamizaki.
Her next major goal is the Chubu Block Tournament, a crucial qualifying event for the All-Japan Championships. Surrounded by talented new rivals, Inori must prove that she can shine among the best.
Why Episode 18 Is Important
This episode shifts focus toward Tsukasa’s personal journey rather than Inori’s competitions.
Key themes expected in “Smoke Signal” include:
Growth Through Inspiration
Seeing a world-class skater firsthand reignites Tsukasa’s determination.
The Reality of Elite Sports
Talent gaps, physical limitations, and mental barriers become painfully clear.
Coach as Athlete
The episode reminds viewers that Tsukasa is not just a mentor but someone still pursuing his own unfinished dreams.
Emotional Depth
Moments of self-doubt and perseverance are central to the series’ appeal.
Broadcast and Streaming Information
TV Broadcast (Japan)
- TV Asahi (NUMAnimation slot):
Every Saturday at 1:30 AM starting January 24, 2026 - CS TV Asahi Channel 1:
Sundays at 9:00 PM starting January 25, 2026 - BS Asahi:
Sundays at 11:30 PM starting January 25, 2026
Episode 18 airs on February 21, 2026.
Streaming Platforms
- Disney+ Star:
Every Saturday from 2:00 AM (Japan time) - Official YouTube Channel (limited-time free release):
New episodes every Saturday from 2:00 AM - Additional paid streaming services will release episodes sequentially.
International availability may vary by region.
Production Staff
The anime is produced by studio ENGI, known for delivering high-quality sports animation with strong character acting.
Key staff include:
- Original Creator: Tsurumai Ikada
- Director: Yasutaka Yamamoto
- Series Composition & Script: Jukki Hanada
- Character Design: Chinatsu Kameyama
- Figure Skating Choreography: Akiko Suzuki (former Olympic skater)
- Music: Yuki Hayashi
- Sound Director: Yuichi Imaizumi
The involvement of real figure skating professionals contributes to the series’ authenticity.
Opening and Ending Theme Songs
- Opening Theme: “Cold Night” by HANA
- Ending Theme: “Rookies” by Conton Candy
Both songs complement the anime’s emotional tone — balancing youthful determination with the loneliness of competitive sports.
Main Voice Cast
- Yuzuki Inori: Natsumi Haruse
- Tsukasa Akeuraji: Takeo Otsuka
- Hikaru Okamizaki: Kana Ichinose
- Jun Yotaka: Yuma Uchida
- Riou Otori: Makoto Koichi
- Shinichiro Otori: Yasuto Saka
The cast delivers nuanced performances that capture both the intensity of competition and the vulnerability of young athletes.
Future of the Franchise
Following the success of the first season (Winter 2025) and the ongoing second season, the franchise continues to expand. A feature film adaptation depicting events after Season 2 is already scheduled for release in 2027, further cementing Medalist as one of the standout sports anime of the decade.
Final Thoughts
Episode 18 of Medalist Season 2 looks set to deliver one of the most emotionally charged moments of the series so far. By focusing on Tsukasa’s struggles and determination, “Smoke Signal” highlights the human side of competition — the relentless pursuit of improvement despite overwhelming odds.
Whether you are a fan of figure skating, sports anime, or character-driven drama, this episode is shaping up to be a must-watch.
