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2026 Winter Olympics Figure Skating Gala Set for Tonight

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 10:31 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, ITALY, JAPAN

Milan/Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy - February 21st, 2026 - As the curtain prepares to fall on the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, figure skating fans are eagerly anticipating the Exhibition Gala, a dazzling showcase of the sport's top talents. The gala, set to commence at 6:00 PM local time tonight, will feature a star-studded lineup, including American sensations Ilia Malinin and Alysa Liu, alongside a cohort of international champions.

This year's gala holds particular significance, representing not just a celebration of Olympic achievements but also a glimpse into the future of figure skating. The presence of Malinin, the current world champion, and Liu, a former national champion, underscores the shifting dynamics within the sport. Malinin, known for his groundbreaking quad Axel - a jump no skater had ever successfully landed in competition until recently - has quickly become a global icon, attracting new audiences and redefining the technical boundaries of men's figure skating. His performance at 6:44 PM local time is expected to be a major draw, offering a chance to witness the athleticism and artistry that have captivated the world.

Liu, while having taken a step back from competitive skating in recent years, remains a beloved figure and a testament to the pressures faced by young athletes. Her return to the ice for the exhibition gala is particularly poignant, showcasing her enduring passion for the sport. Scheduled to skate at 7:16 PM local time, Liu's performance is anticipated to be filled with grace and emotion, providing a welcome counterpoint to the high-octane technical displays of other skaters. Her participation highlights the importance of athlete well-being and the possibility of returning to the ice on one's own terms.

The complete schedule for the gala reveals a diverse international field. Kaori Sakamoto of Japan will open the gala at 6:12 PM, followed by Adam Siao Him Fa (Monaco), Marin Honda (Japan), and Kevin Aymoz (France). The lineup also includes Yuma Kagiyama (Japan), Lou Charpentier (France), Aliya Mustafina (Russia), Shoma Uno (Japan), Laura Irsigler (Austria), Sara Conti (Italy), and Ondrej Nepela (Slovakia). The gala concludes with a performance by Kirsten Hurtz of the USA at 8:38 PM.

Beyond the scheduled performances, the Exhibition Gala serves as a platform for skaters to express their creativity and personality without the constraints of competitive scoring. It's a chance for them to choose their own music, choreograph unique programs, and connect with the audience on a more personal level. The gala often features elaborate costumes, dramatic lighting, and theatrical elements, transforming the ice rink into a stage for a spectacular artistic display.

This year, the organizers have emphasized a theme of "Innovation and Legacy," aiming to celebrate both the history of figure skating and the exciting new directions the sport is taking. The inclusion of skaters like Malinin, who are pushing the boundaries of technical difficulty, alongside established stars like Sakamoto and Uno, reflects this commitment to showcasing the full spectrum of figure skating talent.

The Exhibition Gala is more than just a show; it's a celebration of dedication, athleticism, and artistic expression. It's a fitting conclusion to the Olympic figure skating competition, leaving fans with lasting memories and a renewed appreciation for this captivating sport. The combination of established champions and rising stars, like Malinin and Liu, promises a truly unforgettable evening of skating artistry.