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Beijing 2026 Figure Skating: Key Contenders Emerge

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 5:54 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: CANADA, UNITED STATES, JAPAN, RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Beijing, China - February 14th, 2026 - The ice is glittering, the music is soaring, and the stakes are incredibly high here in Beijing as the figure skating competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics enters its crucial final stages. After a week of captivating performances, the initial standings have begun to take shape, promising a thrilling conclusion to the individual and team events. This report provides a comprehensive update on the results so far, the key contenders, and what to expect as the free skate and free dance segments unfold.

Early Week Highlights: Short Programs and Rhythm Dance Set the Stage

The figure skating competition officially commenced on February 7th, with the short program and rhythm dance events immediately grabbing headlines. The atmosphere in the Capital Indoor Stadium has been electric, fueled by passionate fans and the immense pressure on the athletes. The initial performances demonstrated a high level of technical skill and artistic expression, setting the bar incredibly high for the remainder of the competition. For viewers in Canada, CBC Sports and CBC Gem have provided comprehensive coverage, while American audiences are following the action on NBC and Peacock.

Men's Singles: A Japanese-American Duel?

Japan's Yuma Kagiyama currently leads the men's singles competition after a stunning short program performance, scoring 114.38 points. The 2022 World Champion delivered a technically brilliant and emotionally resonant routine, placing him in a strong position heading into the free skate. However, Ilia Malinin of the United States is breathing down his neck, with a score of 112.53. Malinin, known for his quad jumps, showcased his impressive athleticism and earned a well-deserved second place. Shoma Uno (JPN), another seasoned competitor, rounds out the top three with 109.89. The men's free skate promises to be a nail-biting showdown between these three athletes, with several other skaters poised to challenge for a medal if they can deliver clean and compelling performances.

Women's Singles: Sakamoto Leads a Competitive Field

In the women's singles event, Kaori Sakamoto of Japan leads the pack after the short program, achieving a score of 95.73. Her elegant skating and precise technique have made her a favorite among judges and fans alike. Alysa Liu (USA) follows closely behind with 93.12, demonstrating a blend of technical prowess and artistic flair. Kim Yuna (KOR) - a surprising entry in the field given her established retirement - secured a respectable third place with a score of 91.58, proving her enduring skill on the ice. The women's free skate is expected to be fiercely competitive, with several athletes capable of upsetting the current standings.

Pairs: Japan Holds the Advantage

The Japanese pair of Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara are currently leading the pairs competition with a score of 82.45 in the short program. Their synchronized skating and intricate lifts have captivated audiences and judges. Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier (USA) are a close second with 79.87, while Anastasia Mishina and Aleksandr Galiamov (ROC) trail behind with 78.11. The pairs free skate will be a test of endurance, strength, and artistry, with the top teams battling for gold.

Ice Dance: Chock and Bates in the Driver's Seat

Madison Chock and Evan Bates (USA) are the frontrunners in the ice dance competition after scoring 93.61 in the rhythm dance. Their innovative choreography and seamless partnership have set them apart from the competition. Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier (CAN) are close behind with 92.04, showcasing their graceful and expressive skating. Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri (ITA) are also in contention, earning a score of 90.23. The free dance will be the ultimate test of their artistic interpretation and technical skill.

Looking Ahead: The Free Skate & Free Dance Decide Olympic Champions The remainder of the Games promises more breathtaking moments as the free skate and free dance events determine the final medalists. The pressure is mounting on the athletes as they prepare to deliver their best performances on the Olympic stage. Keep an eye on Yuma Kagiyama, Ilia Malinin, and Kaori Sakamoto, who are currently positioned as the favorites, but expect surprises and unexpected challenges as the competition unfolds. With a wealth of talent and dedication on display, the 2026 Beijing Olympics figure skating competition is proving to be an unforgettable spectacle.