The United States has named a powerhouse figure skating team for the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, led by world champion Ilia Malinin and ice dance stars Madison Chock and Evan Bates. The squad, announced after the national championships in St. Louis, Missouri, includes 16 athletes ready to compete in Italy starting February 6, 2026, with high hopes for multiple medals.
This team stands out as one of the strongest in American history, blending young talent with seasoned performers. Fresh off dominant wins at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, these skaters aim to build on recent world successes and challenge global rivals on the Olympic stage.
Team Announcement Highlights
U.S. Figure Skating revealed the Olympic roster during a lively television event on Sunday, January 11, 2026. The selection followed intense competitions at the nationals, where top performers secured their spots.
Fans watched as officials highlighted each athlete’s journey. The process considered not just national results but also international performances over the past season. This careful approach ensures the team brings peak form to Milan.
Excitement built around the mix of veterans and rising stars. With the Games just weeks away, training ramps up for what could be a medal haul.
The announcement drew cheers from crowds and online buzz, signaling strong support for Team USA.
Key Athletes to Watch
Ilia Malinin leads the men’s side after claiming his fourth straight U.S. title with a stunning score of 324.88 points. Known for his quad jumps and artistic flair, he enters as the gold medal favorite.
In women’s singles, Alysa Liu and Amber Glenn shine bright. Liu, a world champion, pairs with Glenn, who grabbed her third national crown. Both bring speed and grace that could land them on the podium.
Madison Chock and Evan Bates anchor ice dance with their record seventh U.S. title. Their precise routines and emotional depth make them top contenders.
Other team members include pairs like Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov, adding depth across disciplines.
Recent Achievements and Records
These skaters have racked up impressive wins leading into the Olympics. Malinin set a world record free skate score at the 2024 World Championships, showcasing his edge over competitors.
Chock and Bates made history as the first U.S. ice dance pair to win back-to-back world titles in 2024. They followed with a season-best at the 2024 Grand Prix Final.
Liu and Glenn have traded national victories, with Glenn’s consistency earning her spots in major events like the 2025 World Team Trophy.
Here’s a quick look at some standout performances:
- Ilia Malinin: Four consecutive U.S. titles, world champion.
- Madison Chock and Evan Bates: Seven U.S. titles, back-to-back world golds.
- Alysa Liu: World champion, strong international showings.
- Amber Glenn: Three straight U.S. titles, medal contender.
These accomplishments fuel optimism for Team USA.
Olympic Expectations and Challenges
Experts predict this squad could dominate in Milan, with potential golds in men’s and ice dance. The women’s field looks competitive, but Liu and Glenn have the tools to medal.
Training focuses on endurance and mental strength, key for the high-stakes environment. Past Olympics saw U.S. skaters like Nathan Chen win gold in 2022, setting a benchmark.
Challenges include tough rivals from Japan, Russia, and Canada. Yet, Team USA’s depth provides an advantage in the team event.
| Discipline | Key Skaters | Recent Highlight | Olympic Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s Singles | Ilia Malinin | 4th U.S. title, world record score | Gold medal |
| Women’s Singles | Alysa Liu, Amber Glenn | World champ, 3rd U.S. title | Podium finishes |
| Ice Dance | Madison Chock, Evan Bates | 7th U.S. title, back-to-back worlds | Defend top spot |
| Pairs | Alisa Efimova, Misha Mitrofanov | Strong nationals showing | Medal contention |
This table shows why fans expect big results.
Rival teams prepare intensely, but U.S. skaters’ recent form suggests they can rise above.
Impact on Fans and Future of the Sport
The team’s strength inspires young athletes across America. Programs in states like Colorado and California see rising enrollment, thanks to stars like Malinin.
Social media buzzes with support, from fan art to prediction threads. This energy boosts viewership for the Games.
Looking ahead, success in Milan could spark more funding for figure skating, helping develop the next generation.
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