Winter Olympic ice dance rivals Olivia Smart and Jean Luc Baker announce engagement in Milan Italy after Instagram proposal

Olivia Smart and Jean Luc Baker are no longer just rivals on the ice. They are now engaged. The two Winter Olympic skaters shared the happy news on February 14, 2026, after Jean Luc Baker proposed in Milan, Italy.

For years, they competed at top events, sometimes on opposite sides. Now, they are choosing to build one life together. Olivia Smart, who represents Spain in ice dance, had just finished her event in Milan with partner Tim Dieck. The duo placed ninth. There was no medal this time. But something much bigger was waiting for her off the ice. Later that day, Jean Luc Baker got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. She said yes.

The couple posted the news on Instagram the same day. Friends, fans, and fellow skaters quickly filled the comment section with love and support. One fan wrote, “That was so precious. Congratulations.” Another said, “Omg congratulations!! So happy for you.”

Olivia Smart and Jean Luc Baker turn rivalry into love story with Valentine’s Day proposal in Milan

For years, Olivia Smart and Jean Luc Baker were known as strong competitors in ice dance. Jean Luc Baker previously skated for the United States with Kaitlin Hawayek at major international events, including the Winter Olympics.

Olivia Smart has represented Spain with different partners and competed at European and world events. Their careers often placed them at the same competitions, fighting for rankings and scores.But behind the scenes, their bond quietly grew.Jean Luc Baker shared a video on Instagram titled “It’s always been you.” The video showed moments leading up to the proposal. In some clips, he is seen holding the ring while sitting in the stands during Olivia Smart’s competition.

Then the scene shifts to the streets of Milan. Under an umbrella, with light rain around them, he knelt down. Olivia Smart looked shocked at first. Then she shouted, “Yes,” before they hugged and kissed.He also posted photos that captured the exact moment. Olivia Smart later shared the same pictures and simply wrote, “14.02.26,” marking the day she became engaged.There was no big stage, no spotlight, and no medals involved. Still, it became one of the most special days of their skating journey. After years of standing on opposite sides of the rink, they are now stepping into the future as partners for life.