2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships: Your Viewing Guide

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 13:17 GMT by NBC Sports

Get Ready to Cheer: Your Guide to Watching the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships

The 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships are fast approaching, and for figure skating fans across the nation (and beyond), it's a pivotal event marking the beginning of the journey towards the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. These championships aren't just about crowning national champions; they're about identifying the skaters who will represent the United States on the world stage. This guide outlines everything you need to know about how and where to watch the competition, what to expect, and a bit of background on this crucial event.

What are the U.S. Figure Skating Championships?

The U.S. Figure Skating Championships (US Champs) is the annual national-level figure skating competition in the United States. Organized by U.S. Figure Skating (USFS), it determines the national champions in men's singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance. These titles are highly coveted as they often serve as a major stepping stone towards international competitions like the World Championships and, most importantly, Olympic selection. The results significantly influence which skaters will be considered for the U.S. Olympic team.

When & Where is it Happening?

The 2026 US Champs will take place from January 13-19, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio, at the Value City Arena. Columbus was selected as the host city after a competitive bidding process, demonstrating its commitment to supporting figure skating and providing a top-notch venue for athletes and fans alike. The article highlights that this marks a return to Columbus, which previously hosted the championships in 2017 (as detailed on US Figure Skating’s website).

How Can You Watch? A Multi-Platform Approach

NBC Sports is the official broadcast partner for the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, and they're offering a comprehensive viewing experience across multiple platforms. Here's a breakdown:

• Television: The majority of sessions will be televised on NBC and USA Network. Specific timeslots are still to be determined closer to the event (check local listings), but expect prime-time coverage for the most anticipated events, like the women’s free skate and pairs competition. The article emphasizes that NBC's commitment ensures broad accessibility for viewers who prefer traditional television viewing.
• Streaming: Live streaming will be available on Peacock, NBC’s premium streaming service. This provides a convenient option for those who want to watch on their mobile devices or computers. A subscription to Peacock is required. While the article doesn't specify whether all sessions will be streamed simultaneously across all platforms, it's highly likely that key events will be prioritized for live streaming.
• NBC Sports App: The NBC Sports app offers another avenue for streaming live coverage and on-demand replays. This app provides a more tailored experience with personalized content feeds and real-time updates.
• Olympic Channel (International Viewers): For fans outside the United States, the Olympic Channel will likely carry some of the competition, although availability may vary by region.

What to Expect: The Competition Schedule & Key Events

While a detailed schedule for 2026 isn't yet available, based on previous years and outlined in the NBC article, here’s a general idea of what viewers can anticipate:

• Preliminary Rounds: These involve segments like Pattern Dance Qualifying (Ice Dance), qualifying rounds for singles skaters, and short programs.
• Short Programs/Routines: These are crucial components where skaters showcase their technical skills and artistry in a condensed format. They set the stage for the free skate or routine.
• Free Skate/Routine: The main event! This is where skaters have more time to demonstrate their full capabilities, showcasing complex jumps, spins, step sequences, and choreography.
• Pairs & Ice Dance Showcase: These disciplines often draw significant attention due to their unique technical demands and artistic expression.

The article notes that the competition will be particularly important given its proximity to the 2026 Olympics. Expect intense pressure on skaters vying for a spot on the Olympic team, leading to thrilling performances and potential upsets. The USFS website (linked in the NBC article) is the definitive source for the official schedule as it becomes available.

Who Are the Potential Contenders?

While it's too early to definitively say who will be competing at the 2026 Championships, several factors are expected to shape the landscape:

• Emerging Talent: Keep an eye out for rising stars in the junior ranks who could make a splash on the senior stage.
• Returning Champions: Past champions will likely return to defend their titles, facing stiff competition from younger skaters eager to challenge them.
• Olympic Aspirants: The 2026 Championships are a critical opportunity for skaters aiming for the Olympic team, and expect these athletes to be pushing themselves to perform at their absolute best.

Staying Informed: Resources for Figure Skating Fans

To stay up-to-date on all things U.S. Figure Skating Championships, here are some helpful resources:

• U.S. Figure Skating (USFS): https://www.usfigureskating.org/ – The official website for news, schedules, and results.
• NBC Sports: https://www.nbcsports.com/olympics/news/how-to-watch-usa-figure-skating-championships-2026 – Your go-to source for broadcast information and updates.
• Peacock: https://www.peacocktv.com/ - For streaming access.

The 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships promise to be a captivating event filled with athleticism, artistry, and the pursuit of Olympic dreams. Mark your calendars and prepare to witness the next generation of American figure skating stars shine!