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U.S. Figure Skating Championships Kick Off Olympic Qualifying

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 7:30 GMT by NBC Sports

US Figure Skating Championships & Lindsey Vonn's Legacy Headline a Busy Olympic Sports Weekend

This weekend promises a compelling mix of competition and celebration within the Olympic sports world, largely centered around the 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Columbus, Ohio, and tributes to the legendary Lindsey Vonn. NBC Sports is offering extensive coverage, making it a prime weekend for fans of winter sports and those tracking potential Olympians. Here’s a comprehensive summary of the key events and storylines:

U.S. Figure Skating Championships: A Launchpad to Milan-Cortina 2026

The primary focus is undoubtedly the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, which serve as a critical stepping stone towards the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. This competition isn't just about crowning national champions; it’s the beginning of the qualifying process for the Olympic team. Skaters are vying for spots, showcasing improvement, and establishing themselves as contenders.

The men's competition features a fascinating battle. Ilia Malinin, the reigning world champion and history-maker (being the first skater to land a quadruple Axel in competition), is the clear favorite. However, the competition is becoming increasingly fierce. Tomoki Hiura, who transferred from Japan, is expected to be a strong challenger, bringing his own impressive technical skills to the ice. Hiura’s addition adds a significant layer of complexity and excitement to the field. Other skaters to watch include Jimmy Ma and Eric Radford (competing at age 33, seeking another Olympic appearance after a successful pairs career). The article highlights the depth of talent in the men's field, suggesting a compelling and potentially unpredictable competition.

On the women’s side, Isabeau Levitt is emerging as a leading contender. She has consistently demonstrated a strong technical skillset and artistic expression, placing fifth at the recent Grand Prix Final. However, she'll face stiff competition from veterans like Alysa Liu (returning after a break) and promising younger skaters like Skyler Richardson. The women’s competition, while lacking a dominant, established star, is noted for its potential for surprise and a display of emerging talent.

The pairs and ice dance events are also drawing attention. Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier, the reigning U.S. champions and Olympic bronze medalists, are aiming to solidify their position as the nation's top pair. In ice dance, Madison Chock and Evan Bates are the favorites, having won the World Championships and consistently delivering captivating performances. Their continued success is a key storyline, as they hope to lead the U.S. ice dance program to further glory.

Coverage on NBC, USA Network, and Peacock will be extensive throughout the weekend, offering viewers a chance to witness the drama unfold and get to know the athletes hoping to represent the United States in Italy.

Lindsey Vonn Honored at Vail Event & Reflects on Legacy

Alongside the figure skating championships, the weekend also includes a special event honoring Lindsey Vonn, one of the most decorated and influential skiers in history. Vonn is being celebrated in Vail, Colorado, where she achieved many of her triumphs.

The event provides a platform for Vonn to reflect on her career, which included three Olympic medals (one gold, two bronze), 82 World Cup victories (making her the most successful female ski racer of all time), and four World Championship titles. Vonn’s story isn’t just about athletic success; it’s also about overcoming significant injuries – including multiple knee surgeries – and pushing the boundaries of her sport.

Vonn has been increasingly vocal about the challenges women face in sports, particularly regarding body image and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. She has also discussed the importance of mental health and advocating for athletes' wellbeing. The Vail celebration isn’t solely a retrospective; it’s a chance for Vonn to continue using her platform to advocate for positive change within the sporting world.

The NBC Sports article highlights Vonn’s impact beyond the slopes, pointing to her work as a mentor, businesswoman, and advocate for female empowerment. She’s building a legacy that extends far beyond her athletic achievements.

Beyond Skating & Vonn: Other Olympic Sports in the Spotlight

While figure skating and the Vonn celebration are the headliners, the weekend also features events in other Olympic sports, including bobsled and skeleton. These events, though receiving less prominent coverage, provide a glimpse into the less mainstream, but equally demanding, world of winter Olympic competition.

Overall, the weekend promises a captivating blend of high-stakes competition, heartwarming tributes, and a look ahead to the future of Olympic sports. The U.S. Figure Skating Championships provide a crucial window into the talent pool vying for a spot on the 2026 Olympic team, while the celebration of Lindsey Vonn serves as a powerful reminder of athletic greatness, resilience, and the importance of advocacy. Fans can tune into NBC Sports platforms to follow all the action and celebrate the dedication and artistry of these remarkable athletes.