Figure skating at Milan-Cortina 2026: key results and what's next at the Winter Games

The figure skating program at the 2026 Winter Games produced dramatic shifts in the medal picture on Monday, Feb. 17, ET, as favorites and dark-horse performers each left a mark on the ice. With short programs and free skates unfolding across singles and pairs segments, coaches and fans are recalibrating expectations heading into the concluding sessions.

Notable performances reshape the podium chase

Early in the session, several skaters delivered technically demanding programs that combined high base-value jumps with strong component scores. A handful of athletes landed clean quad jumps and triple Axels, putting pressure on long-standing frontrunners. Conversely, a few top-ranked competitors stumbled on key elements, opening the door for newly emerging medal threats.

Judges rewarded risk-taking: competitors who attempted and landed upgraded jump content moved up substantially in the standings. Meanwhile, skaters who leaned on artistry and clean execution remained in contention thanks to high program component scores. The blend of athleticism and performance quality has made this phase of the competition unusually volatile.

Team and individual narratives to watch

Team scoring earlier in the Games hinted at depth for several nations, and that depth is proving decisive now that individual spots carry extra pressure. Teams with multiple skaters advancing to final segments look poised to capitalize, while countries relying on single stars are feeling renewed urgency to post near-perfect free skates.

Beyond medals, several storylines are drawing attention: comeback bids from seasoned veterans aiming for one last Olympic reward; breakthrough displays from younger skaters seizing their moment on the biggest stage; and technical arms races as athletes chase higher jump difficulty. Coaches have emphasized strategic pacing and injury prevention given the packed Olympic schedule.

Schedule, what to expect next and conditions

Competition resumes later this week with free programs for the remaining singles and the pairs free skate, all timed in Eastern Time. Organizers have kept the ice and arena conditions consistent, though colder arena temperatures have prompted some skaters to alter practice timing and warm-up routines. Officials continue to monitor those factors to preserve safety and fairness.

As the final segments approach, expect lineups to tighten and judges to parse fine margins—edge calls, levels on spins and step sequences, and grade of execution on each jumping element will determine final placements. With the podium still within reach for multiple contenders, the closing days promise intense, high-stakes performances that could reshuffle the medals one more time.

We will continue to track live scores, program content updates, and athlete reactions as the figure skating competition progresses through the week.