How Olympic Figure Skating Judging Works: A History of Scoring Scandals
Figure skating is one of the most scrutinized events at the Olympic Games, marrying high-stakes athleticism with artistic expression. This delicate balance has often made the sport infamous for judging scandals and controversies, with the anticipation of heartbreak always present. As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, figure skating faces new challenges amid shifting dynamics and regulations in the sport.
Understanding the Olympic Figure Skating Judging System
The judging system for Olympic figure skating consists of two primary components: the Technical Element Score (TES) and the Program Component Score (PCS). This dual scoring system, introduced in 2002, aims to provide a fair evaluation based on both technical precision and artistic impression.
Technical Element Score (TES)
The TES represents the objective measure of a performance, detailing the difficulty of jumps, spins, and footwork. A panel of nine judges assigns a Grade of Execution (GOE) from -5 to +5 based on how well each element is executed. The total TES reflects both the base value of each move and the quality of its execution.
- Each jump and spin has a defined base value based on complexity.
- The judges assess elements in real-time, accounting for landings and rotations.
- Commonly performed elements include the Quadruple jump for men and the Triple Axel for all skaters.
Program Component Score (PCS)
The PCS evaluates the artistry of a performance on a scale from 0.25 to 10. It integrates three core components to offer a more holistic view of the skater’s artistry:
- Skating Skills: Assessed on speed, power, and smoothness of glide.
- Composition: Includes choreography and harmony between technical moves and artistic expression.
- Presentation: Focuses on the skater’s emotional engagement and performance quality.
Deductions
Before final scores are calculated, deductions are applied for any errors. Common infractions include:
- Falls resulting in -1.0 points for the first two occurrences, escalating to -2.0 and -3.0 points for multiple falls.
- Penalties for time violations or costume infringements on the ice.
The Evolution of Scoring: From 6.0 to IJS
The current International Judging System (IJS) arose from the 2002 Salt Lake City “Skategate” scandal, where a French judge admitted to bias. This scandal led to the retirement of the old 6.0 scoring system, which relied on subjective rankings.
Now, each component of a performance is meticulously quantified, which helps ensure a level playing field. Nevertheless, concerns regarding bias persist, particularly towards judges favoring athletes from their countries.
Notable Scandals in Figure Skating History
Figure skating’s legacy includes several key scandals that have shaped public perception of the sport:
- 1994 Lillehammer Games: Nancy Kerrigan was attacked before the Olympics, casting a shadow over the competition.
- 2002 Salt Lake City: The admitted bias of a judge led to a significant overhaul in judging practices.
- 2014 Sochi Olympics: Adelina Sotnikova’s controversial win sparked accusations of “home-cooked” judging.
- 2022 Beijing Olympics: Kamila Valieva’s positive drug test and subsequent fallout generated immense scrutiny.
As the figure skating community prepares for the upcoming Olympics, the legacy of these scandals continues to influence current practices and perceptions. Stay tuned to Filmogaz.com for ongoing coverage and insights into the world of Olympic figure skating and its scoring systems.
