ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating series 2025-26: Full season preview and how to watch live
The Olympic figure skating season is finally here, and the excitement is palpable! The ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating series 2025-26 is set to captivate fans with its six-stop journey, culminating at the prestigious Grand Prix Final in Nagoya, Japan, from December 4-7.
Top skaters worldwide will lace up their boots, vying for coveted spots at the Final. Each competitor is typically assigned two Grand Prix events, which are crucial for securing a place in the Grand Prix Final. This year’s series kicks off with the Grand Prix de France on October 17-19 and features several lead-up events, with small-scale ISU Challenger events taking place across the globe.
Alongside reigning world champions like Ilia Malinin and Alysa Liu, an Olympic-like atmosphere awaits in Nagoya, given its proximity to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. Malinin, a formidable presence in men’s singles, has front-loaded his schedule, competing first in France and then at Skate Canada in week three of the series. Liu will also shine as she performs at the Cup of China and Skate America.
For the men’s competition, all eyes will be on Ilia Malinin, who stands undefeated in the past two years and is gearing up for a clash against emerging rivals like Kagiyama Yuma and Cha Jun-hwan. Meanwhile, the women’s race is hotly contested, with reigning world champion Liu facing intense challenge from Japan’s Sakamoto Kaori and rising contenders seeking Olympic glory.
Pairs and ice dance events promise their own thrill, featuring teams like Miura/Kihara and 2023 world titlists Chock/Bates, along with challengers like Canada’s mesmerizing Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier. The lineup reveals a perfect blend of seasoned pros and young talent, promising an exhilarating season ahead.
Mark your calendar for the Grand Prix series that culminates in Nagoya! Don’t forget to check local listings to be part of this sporting spectacle, as multiple broadcasters around the world partner with the International Skating Union for comprehensive coverage.
