N※N

Milan Figure Skating Gala Set for Sunday

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. 21/milan-figure-skating-gala-set-for-sunday.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 11:55 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CHINA, JAPAN, RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Milan, Italy - February 21st, 2026 - As the dust settles on a week of breathtaking competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, figure skating fans are eagerly anticipating one final spectacle: the exhibition gala. Scheduled for Sunday, February 23rd at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time, the gala promises a dazzling display of artistry, athleticism, and celebration from the Games' top performers. This year's gala is particularly noteworthy, featuring a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, including the highly anticipated performances of American world champion Ilia Malinin and former U.S. champion Alysa Liu.

The exhibition gala is a cherished Olympic tradition, offering skaters a relaxed and joyful opportunity to showcase their skills without the pressure of medal contention. Unlike the judged competitive programs, the gala focuses purely on entertainment, allowing skaters to experiment with choreography, music, and performance styles. It's a chance for athletes to connect directly with the audience and express their passion for the sport.

This year's lineup is a veritable who's who of figure skating excellence. The gala will kick off with an opening medley, setting the stage for a night of unforgettable performances. Mirai Nagasu, a beloved American skater known for her resilience and captivating performances, will take to the ice at 7:37 p.m. ET, promising a poignant and memorable skate. Following her is the legendary Yuzuru Hanyu of Japan, a two-time Olympic champion and global icon. Hanyu's participation is always a major draw, and fans are expecting another stunning and emotionally charged performance, possibly hinting at his future plans.

European Champion Loena Hendrickx (Belgium) will add to the international flavor, followed by the electrifying Ilia Malinin (USA) at 7:52 p.m. ET. Malinin, who recently claimed the world title, is a revolutionary force in men's figure skating, famed for being the first skater to land a quadruple Lutz in competition. His performance is expected to be a highlight of the gala, pushing the boundaries of technical skill and athletic prowess. Shortly after, Denis Vasiljevs (Latvia) will grace the ice.

At 8:02 p.m. ET, all eyes will turn to Alysa Liu (USA). Despite a relatively young age, Liu has already established herself as a powerful and expressive skater, winning the U.S. Championship and consistently delivering captivating performances. Her artistry and athleticism make her a fan favorite, and her gala program is anticipated to be a beautiful and moving showcase of her talent. The gala continues with Shoma Uno (Japan), a consistent performer on the world stage.

The gala also features strong performances from Madison Chock and Evan Bates (USA), a dynamic ice dance pair who have captivated audiences with their innovative programs and chemistry. Kaori Sakamoto (Japan), Gao Yunlong (China), and Adam Siao Him Fa (France) will each bring their unique styles and talents to the ice, offering a diverse range of performances. The evening will also include a performance from Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara (Japan), a beloved pair team.

The 'Final Waltz' will bring the event to a close, leaving audiences with a sense of joy and anticipation for the future of figure skating.

The 2026 Winter Olympics have showcased the incredible talent and dedication of athletes from around the world. The exhibition gala is the perfect way to celebrate their achievements and bid farewell to the Games, leaving fans with lasting memories of a truly spectacular event. Beyond the captivating performances, the gala serves as a reminder of the unifying power of sport and the beauty of artistic expression.