Winter Olympics 2026: Figure skating exhibition gala wraps up Milano Cortina 2026 event with laughs, tears and the traditional “Sakamoto selfie”
Backflips, kung fu chops, and quads took center stage during the Exhibition Gala on Saturday, February 21, marking a festive conclusion to two weeks of thrilling yet unpredictable figure skating competition at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.
The night dazzled with 29 unique performances, showcasing skaters’ varied styles from whimsical compositions to rock Out performances set to Guns N’ Roses and Queen. The atmosphere at the Milano Ice Skating Arena was electric, with fans fully engaged in this unforgettable experience.
Italian icon Carolina Kostner‘s performance opened the two-and-a-half-hour show, enchanting audiences with her diamond-adorned attire and graceful movements. At 39, she mesmerized the crowd, making the ice shine with captivating projections throughout her routine.
While there are no traditional winners in a gala, key performances stood out. Notably, Olivia Smart and Tim Dieck transformed the ice into a football pitch, garnering cheers as they performed in Spain’s football kit while engaging enthusiastic spectators.
In a heartwarming tribute to Olympic legends, the Italian figure skating team brought Luciano Pavarotti’s tenor to life with a powerful ensemble number that blended various disciplines beautifully.
Amber Glenn transformed perceptions with her softer performance to Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life,” while Ilia Malinin earned applause with electrifying jumps. His emotional routine resonated with the audience, showing the depth behind his talented bravura.
But the night’s unexpected hero came in the entertaining shape of Mikhail Shaidorov, who, donning a panda costume, melded comedic flair with martial arts moves during his performance. In an amusing turn, friends and rivals momentarily attempted to team up against him, while the audience erupted with laughter.
This tear-jerking affair culminated in a grouping tribute featuring the competition’s elite, saluting the beauty of their art form as they united to perform exquisite elements drawn from their diverse disciplines, symbolizing the friendship and spirit of the Winter Olympics.
As Sakamoto Kaori captured yet another selfie alongside her fellow skaters, echoes of Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida” filled the arena—marking a fitting celebration of talent and camaraderie as skaters wrapped up an eventful chapter in Olympic history.
