Experience the Grace and Drama: Your Guide to Olympic Figure Skating
When to Catch the First Twirls: The Opening Day Schedule for Figure Skating
The official start of the 2026 Winter Olympics will be marked by the Opening Ceremonies on Friday, airing in the late afternoon for East Coast viewers. However, dedicated figure skating enthusiasts can witness the initial competitive routines much earlier in the day. The ice dance segment, specifically the Rhythm Dance, will kick off the team event in the early morning hours, followed by the Pair Skating Short Program, and concluding with the Women's Single Skating Short Program by mid-morning.
Meet the Voices of the Ice: The Expert Commentary Team
Viewers tuning into the figure skating events will be treated to the familiar and insightful commentary of a celebrated duo: Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir. Lipinski, a gold medalist from the 1998 Olympics, holds the distinction of being the youngest Olympic figure skating champion. Weir, a two-time Olympian in 2006 and 2010, brings his extensive competitive experience to the broadcast. They will be joined by Terry Gannon, a seasoned announcer who is returning for his fourth consecutive Olympic figure skating assignment, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging viewing experience.
The Grand Debut: Figure Skating's Early Start to the Games
The competitive action for figure skating is slated to commence on February 6th, starting with the Ice Dance – Rhythm Dance portion of the team event. This early start precedes the main Opening Ceremonies, offering fans an initial glimpse into the talent and artistry that will define the 2026 Winter Games.