Malinin Eyes Olympic Glory in Figure Skating Final
Locales: UNITED STATES, JAPAN, CANADA, FRANCE, ITALY

Milan/Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy - February 13, 2026 - The intensity is reaching fever pitch at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo as the men's figure skating competition culminates tonight. All eyes are fixed on Ilia Malinin, the reigning world champion, as he attempts to translate his global dominance onto the Olympic stage. The atmosphere is electric, with fans worldwide tuning in to witness what promises to be a captivating final.
Malinin, a prodigious talent known for his groundbreaking quadruple jumps, has been a consistent force throughout the competition, delivering stunning performances in the short program. However, the Olympic final is a different beast altogether. The weight of expectation, coupled with the pressure of performing on the grandest stage, can impact even the most seasoned athletes.
Tonight's schedule is crucial. The skaters will perform their long programs, accounting for a significant portion of their overall score. Precision, artistry, and stamina are all paramount. A single misstep could be the difference between Olympic glory and heartbreak. Malinin is scheduled to take the ice at 9:16 PM ET, a pivotal moment for both the skater and the American contingent.
Full Start List for the Men's Figure Skating Final (ET):
- Kazuki Tomono (Japan) - 9:00 PM
- Markus Wolf (Austria) - 9:03 PM
- Finn Connors (Great Britain) - 9:06 PM
- Kao Miura (Japan) - 9:09 PM
- Ilia Malinin (United States) - 9:16 PM
- Yuki Suzuki (Japan) - 9:21 PM
- Adam Siao Him Fa (France) - 9:24 PM
- Kevin Aymoz (France) - 9:27 PM
- Lee Si-hyeong (South Korea) - 9:30 PM
- JunHee Chang (South Korea) - 9:33 PM
- Daniel Grassl (Austria) - 9:36 PM
- Alexander Petrov (Russia) - 9:39 PM
But the competition is far from a one-man show. Japan's Kazuki Tomono and Kao Miura are both strong contenders, showcasing impressive technical skills and artistic expression. The Japanese team has consistently performed well throughout the event, and their skaters are poised to challenge Malinin for the top spot. Similarly, the French duo of Adam Siao Him Fa and Kevin Aymoz represent a significant threat, bringing a combination of athleticism and elegance to their routines.
The presence of skaters like South Korea's Lee Si-hyeong and JunHee Chang adds to the overall depth and excitement of the competition. Both have demonstrated the ability to deliver clean and compelling performances, making them potential dark horses for a medal.
The anticipation surrounding this final is also heightened by the geopolitical landscape. With Russian skaters competing under a neutral flag, the event carries a complex weight, reminding us of the ongoing global situation. Alexander Petrov, the Russian skater, will be looking to deliver a performance that transcends the political complexities and focuses solely on athletic achievement.
Beyond the Jumps: The Artistry of Figure Skating
While technical prowess is undoubtedly critical, figure skating is also an art form. Judges evaluate not only the difficulty and execution of jumps and spins but also the skater's artistry, musicality, and overall presentation. This holistic assessment means that a skater can't simply rely on technical difficulty; they must also captivate the audience and the judges with their performance.
How to Watch:
For viewers in Canada, the men's figure skating final will be broadcast on CBC Sports and available for streaming on CBC Gem. International viewers should check their local listings for broadcasting information. The event is expected to draw a massive global audience, eager to witness the crowning of a new Olympic champion.
As Ilia Malinin prepares to take the ice, the world holds its breath. Can he handle the pressure and deliver a performance worthy of Olympic gold? Only time will tell. One thing is certain: tonight's men's figure skating final promises to be a spectacle of athleticism, artistry, and unforgettable moments.
Read the Full Sporting News Article at:
[ https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/olympics/news/what-time-does-ilia-malinin-actually-skate-today-full-start-list-mens-figure-skating-olympic-final/a4a9225cd2fbc4f21dfa659d ]