Pairs Figure Skating at the 2026 Olympics: A Look at the Contenders
The figure skating world is buzzing with anticipation as the focus shifts to the pairs competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Following the excitement and, at times, controversy surrounding other disciplines, all eyes are now on the athletes vying for gold in this demanding and beautiful event. Team USA arrives with a blend of momentum and determination, while other nations are poised to challenge for the top spot.
Team USA’s Pursuit of Olympic Gold
Ellie Kam and Danny O’Shea are leading the charge for the United States. They played a crucial role in securing team gold, achieving a personal best score in the process. Their performance showcased not only their technical skill but also the incredible athleticism required in pairs skating – where one skater often acts as a literal launchpad for the other! Alongside them, Emily Chan and Spencer Akira Howe will be making their Olympic debut, adding fresh energy to the American team.
However, the road to Olympic glory hasn’t been without its challenges. The recent disqualification of two-time U.S. champions Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov due to citizenship requirements underscores the stringent criteria for Olympic participation. This highlights the dedication and commitment required to represent one’s nation on the world stage.
International Competition and the Reigning Champions
Japan’s Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara enter the competition as the clear gold-medal favourites. The defending world champions dominated both the short and free skate portions of the team event, demonstrating their consistency and mastery of the discipline. Their performance sets a high bar for all other competitors.
The Subjectivity of Scoring and the Role of Judges
Figure skating scoring is a complex blend of technical precision and artistic interpretation. While the International Judging System (IJS) aimed to increase transparency, the subjective element remains a source of debate. Recent controversies in ice dance have placed the judges under intense scrutiny, making their decisions even more critical. As Britannica explains, the scoring system is designed to reward both the difficulty and execution of elements, but interpretation inevitably plays a role.
Olympic Schedule & Where to Watch
Here’s how to catch the action (all times ET):
- Pairs Short Program Highlights: NBC’s “Primetime in Milan” – Sunday at 9:20 and 10:20 p.m. (Re-air on USA at 1:45 a.m. Monday)
- Pairs Free Skate Highlights: NBC’s “Primetime in Milan” – Monday at 8:30 and 9:45 p.m. (Re-air on USA at 2 a.m. Tuesday)
Keep an eye on the official Olympic website for the most up-to-date schedule and broadcast information: https://olympics.com/
A History of Near Misses for the USA
The United States has a storied but often heartbreaking history in Olympic pairs figure skating. The nation has never won gold in this event, and its last medal came way back in 1988. The 2026 Olympics represent a chance to break that streak and finally claim the top spot on the podium.
The pairs competition promises to be a thrilling showcase of athleticism, artistry, and determination. With a strong field of contenders and the added pressure of Olympic competition, the 2026 Winter Olympics are set to deliver unforgettable moments on the ice.
