The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan are set to host the captivating figure skating events, promising a spectacle of athleticism and artistry. Enthusiasts can anticipate comprehensive coverage of both the team and individual competitions. This guide provides essential information on broadcast schedules, official streaming options, and free trial opportunities to ensure an immersive viewing experience. From the initial short programs to the decisive free skates, audiences will have ample ways to follow their favorite skaters and national teams as they vie for Olympic glory on the global stage.
Your Guide to Watching the 2026 Winter Olympics Figure Skating Events
Figure skating at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, is scheduled to commence with the team event from February 6th to 8th, followed by individual competitions running through February 19th. Spectators in the United States can catch the action on both NBC and USA Network. NBC will feature prime-time broadcasts, accessible via local affiliates through basic cable or a digital antenna. For those with cable packages, USA Network will offer additional coverage of select events.
For viewers preferring online access, several streaming platforms provide live coverage. DirecTV offers a five-day free trial, allowing subscribers to watch over 90 channels, including a live NBC feed. Peacock, the official streaming service for the 2026 Winter Olympics, will stream every figure skating competition live and on-demand, with subscriptions starting at $10.99 per month. Hulu + Live TV also includes NBC and USA Network in its lineup, providing a three-day free trial for those looking to stream without a long-term commitment. These streaming services ensure that fans can follow the events on various devices, including computers, tablets, phones, and smart TVs.
In the highly anticipated team event, ten nations will contend, with the top five advancing to the medal round. The United States team is expected to be a strong contender, featuring prominent athletes such as three-time world ice dance champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates, two-time men’s champion Ilia Malinin, and reigning women’s world champion Alysa Liu. Other nations like Japan, Italy, Georgia, and Canada are also poised to challenge for podium finishes. In the individual events, American world champions are favored, though Alysa Liu will face stiff competition from teammate Amber Glenn and three-time world champion Kaori Sakamoto. The ice dance event is set to feature a captivating contest between Chock and Bates and the French duo of Guillaume Cizeron and his new partner, Laurence Fournier Beaudry. The pairs competition is anticipated to be a fierce battle among teams from China, Japan, Georgia, and host nation Italy. Notable American pair skaters Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov will not participate due to citizenship requirements.
Reflections on the Spectacle: The Enduring Appeal of Olympic Figure Skating
The upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics figure skating events underscore the timeless allure of this sport, seamlessly blending artistic expression with demanding athleticism. As athletes from around the globe prepare to showcase years of dedication, their performances will undoubtedly inspire millions. The emphasis on both team camaraderie and individual brilliance highlights the diverse facets of competitive skating. Beyond the medals, the Olympics serve as a powerful platform, uniting nations and celebrating the pinnacle of human achievement on ice. This grand spectacle not only captivates with its beauty and precision but also reminds us of the profound narratives behind each competitor’s journey, fostering a deeper appreciation for their relentless pursuit of perfection.