The spotlight is on St. Louis, Missouri, as the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships approach, promising an exhilarating week filled with high stakes and dazzling performances. America’s top skaters, including Ilia Malinin, Amber Glenn, and the dynamic duo of Madison Chock & Evan Bates, are set to compete for national glory and coveted spots on the U.S. team for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.
The famed ice dance team of Chock and Bates enters the competition aiming for their fifth consecutive national title and seventh overall, an astounding feat not seen in U.S. figure skating history since their reign began post-Beijing 2022. Meanwhile, Malinin, the reigning world champion, seeks his fourth consecutive national title, showcasing the confidence and skill that solidified his status at the pinnacle of the sport. Amber Glenn, the 2025 Grand Prix Final winner, hopes to claim her third consecutive win in St. Louis, adding to the intensity of the event.
The quest for national titles comes with a sense of urgency, as the selection for the Olympic team looms ahead. Each competitor feels the weight of expectation, knowing that success could propel them onto the world’s grandest stage.
Among other key contenders, ice dance athletes Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik have proven their mettle this season, ranking high in previous competitions. The intoxicating dynamics of veteran competitors also return with Olympians Maia and Alex Shibutani, diving back into the championship fray for the first time since 2018.
On the men’s side, while Malinin’s reign has been largely unchallenged, Jason Brown remains a strong contender, previously finishing close behind Malinin in national standings. This competitive field includes Andrew Torgashev, Camden Pulkinen, and Maxim Naumov, each eager to establish their presence on the Olympic journey.
The pairs’ champions from 2025, Alisa Efimova & Misha Mitrofanov, are gearing up to defend their title against fierce rivals Ellie Kam and Danny O’Shea, ensuring thrilling artistry and athleticism on the ice.
Fans can catch all the new heights of accomplishments live as NBC provides coverage of the championship events, which include short programs, free skates, and rhythm dances throughout the weekend, also available for streaming on Peacock.
As the date approaches, figure skating enthusiasts are ready to witness athletic prowess and emotional displays that may very well define these athletes’ careers.
