Full Breakdown
U.S. Figure Skating Team Named for 2026 Winter Olympics
2/12/2026, 10:10:25 PM
Overview of the 2026 U.S. Olympic Figure Skating Team
On January 11, 2026, the United States Olympic Committee announced the figure skating team that will compete at the Milano Cortina Winter Games. The selected athletes include:
- Women's Singles: Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, Isabeau Levito
- Men's Singles: Ilia Malinin, Andrew Torgashev, Maxim Naumov
- Pairs: Ellie Kim and Danny O'Shea, Emily Chan and Spencer Howe
- Ice Dance: Madison Chock and Evan Bates, Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik, Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko
These competitors aim to enhance the United States' historical medal tally in Olympic figure skating, which currently stands at 54 medals (17 gold, 16 silver, and 21 bronze) since the sport's Olympic debut in 1908.
Historical Context of U.S. Figure Skating Success
The United States has a rich history in Olympic figure skating, with notable champions including Dick Button, the first American to win Olympic gold in the sport, and Tara Lipinski, who became the youngest Olympic champion at 15 years and 255 days in 1998. Other prominent figures include Kristi Yamaguchi, Nancy Kerrigan, and Michelle Kwan, each contributing to the U.S.'s legacy with multiple Olympic and world championship medals.
The U.S. has also seen success in pairs skating, although it has never secured a gold medal in this category. The last medal in pairs was a silver won by Kitty and Peter Carruthers in 1984. Meryl Davis and Charlie White made history by winning the only gold medal for the U.S. in ice dance at the 2014 Olympics.
Current Team's Aspirations
The 2026 team will look to build on the successes of previous Olympians. Nathan Chen, who won gold in men's singles in 2022 and has three world championships to his name, is among the athletes expected to lead the charge. The team also includes promising newcomers like Ilia Malinin, who is noted for his technical skills.
Official Statements & Responses
The announcement of the team has been met with excitement from the U.S. Figure Skating Association, which expressed confidence in the athletes' abilities to perform at the highest level. The organization highlighted the importance of the upcoming Olympics in continuing the U.S. tradition of excellence in figure skating.
Criticism & Opposition
While the team selection has generally been well-received, some critics argue that the focus on established names may overshadow emerging talent. They advocate for a more inclusive approach that allows for a broader representation of skaters, particularly those who have shown promise in recent competitions.
What's Next for the U.S. Figure Skating Team
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, the selected athletes will undergo rigorous training and preparation, aiming to secure their place in Olympic history. The U.S. Figure Skating Association is expected to provide ongoing support and resources to ensure the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
