U.S. Looks to Lock in Third Pairs Spot, Full Team for 2026 Olympic Winter Games
Audrey Shin and Balazs Nagy travel to Beijing, China, this week with a critical mission: to secure a third pairs position for the United States at the forthcoming Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026.
They face tough competition at the ISU Skate to Milano Figure Skating Qualifier 2025—an officially sanctioned event designed to finalize Olympic berths. To ensure a spot, Shin and Nagy need to finish among the top three countries in the pairs standings. Anxiety levels are high, knowing that each nation can only earn a single position.
This highly anticipated event showcases 11 competing pairs, set to capture hearts and headlines as the competition unfolds over two days. The short program kicks off at 3:30 a.m. ET on Friday, with the exciting free skate slated for 2:30 a.m. ET on Saturday.
Earlier in the year at the ISU World Figure Skating Championships in Boston, U.S. Figure Skating celebrated securing places in the women’s, men’s, and ice dance divisions for the 2026 Olympic Games. Furthermore, the organization earned two pairs positions, yet only a successful performance in Beijing will establish the chance for a coveted third berth.
An achievement by Shin and Nagy would create a monumental moment in U.S. Olympic history. It would mark the first occasion that the country sends a full figure skating team—three competitors in each discipline—since 1984. Notably, the United States would also become the only nation to field a complete team at this year’s choicest skating venue in Milan.
Shin and Nagy are entering their second season together and have already made immense strides. Celebrated for their dynamics and artistry, they made an impressive international debut, capturing bronze at the 2024 Golden Spin of Zagreb, and subsequently securing fifth place at the 2025 Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships.
Patience and hard work are on their side, as the nation holds its collective breath hoping for success. On the edge of historical achievement, their stunning performances may inspire future generations of Olympic figure skaters.
For up-to-the-minute results and insights about the official qualifying event, fans can tune into the U.S. Figure Skating Fan Zone.
