Shoma Uno Joins Esports Team VARREL: Olympic Medalist Vows to Keep Challenging Beyond His Fame

Professional figure skater Shoma Uno (28) appeared at a special press conference at the VARREL booth during EVO Japan 2026 on May 1, where he announced that he has joined the esports team VARREL.

Uno retired from competitive skating in May 2024 and transitioned to a professional career. In his private life, he began engaging in gaming-related activities in 2020 after collaborating on a livestream with a professional Super Smash Bros. player. Since then, he has expanded his presence as a performer into the gaming industry.

Determined to Forge a New Path Beyond His Achievements

Uno boasts an illustrious career, including winning medals at two consecutive Olympic Games, securing back to back World Championship titles, and competing in the All Japan Championships for 13 consecutive years. However, he revealed that upon retirement, he became deeply aware that such achievements are not permanent.

He explained, “They are not something that will be passed down forever. If I do not actively carry them forward, they will eventually fade away. If I remain satisfied with my current fame and position without continuing to challenge myself, everything will one day be forgotten. That is why I wanted to expand my activities through something I truly love, which is gaming.”

Joining the GAMER Division Fueled by Passion

Uno shared that after speaking with members of VARREL, he was struck by their shared passion for gaming, which led him to join the team’s GAMER division.

“The love for games is something I truly share with the audience. I approach it with genuine passion, so I believe there are many aspects where we can connect. I hope to turn what I love into my work moving forward,” he said with a smile.

Regarding future plans, Uno commented, “We have various plans in place, but there is still little we can announce at this stage. I hope everyone looks forward to what is coming.”

The press conference was also attended by professional gamer Tokido (40), a graduate of the University of Tokyo.

Source : ORICON NEWS