New Season Confirmed: Medalist
The world of anime welcomed a fresh and compelling story this winter with "Medalist," the television adaptation of Tsurumaikada's acclaimed manga. The series quickly captivated audiences with its emotionally resonant storytelling, striking animation, and authentic portrayal of competitive figure skating becoming a favorite during the Winter Season. Now, exciting news has arrived: Medalist will return for a second season!
If you haven't watched Medalist first season please, kindly, scroll away because there might be spoilers.
Serialized in Kodansha’s Monthly Afternoon magazine since May 2020, the manga has already published 12 volumes as of January 2025. The English translation is readily available, with up to Volume 10 currently accessible for fans eager to follow along. In addition, said manga was honored with prestigious awards, winning both the Best General Manga at last year's Shogakukan Manga Awards and Kodansha’s 48th annual Manga Awards.
Medalist’s success isn’t solely due to its depiction of figure skating; it’s about how it uses that backdrop to explore universal themes such as dreams, perseverance, and overcoming adversity. The series cleverly balances the high-stakes competition of elite sports with relatable human struggles. It doesn't shy away from showcasing the harsh realities behind pursuing a dream – the financial burdens, the sacrifices required, and the emotional toll on athletes and their families. Furthermore, the relationship between Inori and Tsukasa, far from being the typical coach/student dynamic, is nuanced and compelling, creating an endearing connection that draws viewers in. The series’ commitment to realistic character development, combined with sharp comedic moments creates a truly captivating experience, appealing not just to sports anime enthusiasts but also to anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story about chasing dreams.
Studio ENGI, despite being relatively new, delivered what many consider their finest work yet, flawlessly capturing the fluidity and grace of figure skating with stunning detail.
The careful attention to detail, from the sound of blades on ice to the lighting that accentuates each movement, creates an immersive experience for the viewer. Even a seemingly simple scene like Tsukasa's skating in "Shirone’s Lesson" is executed with such precision and artistry that it becomes unforgettable, demonstrating ENGI's commitment to bringing Tsurumaikada's vision to life.
Season 2 will see Inori move up to the Novice Class, facing even more formidable rivals on a higher competitive stage. The story will likely follow her journey as she navigates this new level of competition, tackling tougher opponents and adapting to the increased pressure.
While an exact release date hasn’t been confirmed, given Studio ENGI's production timeline and the availability of ample source material from the manga (covering beyond what was adapted in Season 1), a premiere around January or April 2026 seems plausible – roughly a year and a half after the first season’s conclusion.
For those eager to continue experiencing the story of Inori and Tsukasa beyond the events of Episode 13 ("The Morning Comes"), the manga offers an excellent avenue. Season 1 adapted content up to around Volume 4, Chapter 15. To seamlessly pick up from where the anime left off, start with Volume 5, Chapter 16 “The Athlete’s Pledge.” This will thrust you into Inori's Novice Class competitions and the intensifying rivalries that await her. The manga continues to deliver compelling narratives, striking visuals, and a deep dive into the lives of these aspiring athletes, providing ample material for both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
