The United States has officially named its figure skating delegation for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan‑Cortina d’Ampezzo, showcasing a blend of seasoned champions, emotional comeback stories and rising stars ready to compete on the world’s biggest stage.
From an Army soldier’s perseverance to a brave return from personal loss and a trio of women redefining the sport, this U.S. team reflects resilience, diversity, and elite athleticism.
U.S. Men’s Singles: Power, Precision and Personal Triumph
Ilia Malinin – The “Quad God” Leading the Charge
At just 21 years old, Ilia Malinin headlines the U.S. men’s team with a season of dominance. Known in skating circles as the “Quad God,” Malinin is widely celebrated for his extraordinary technical ability — including the rare quadruple Axel and multiple quadruple jumps in a single program.
After claiming his fourth consecutive U.S. national title in St. Louis and racking up world titles and Grand Prix victories, Malinin enters the Olympics as America’s best hope for men’s singles gold.
Andrew Torgashev – Athleticism Meets Artistry
Andrew Torgashev brings a unique blend of athletic strength and expressive performance to Milan. Standing out with his artistic programs and storytelling on ice, Torgashev continues to evolve after strong national results and is poised for his first Olympic appearance.
Maxim Naumov – Triumph Over Tragedy
Perhaps the most compelling story on the U.S. roster belongs to Maxim Naumov. Just 24, Naumov’s Olympic journey followed the tragic deaths of his parents — former world champion skaters and his lifelong coaches — in a mid‑air plane crash in early 2025.
Despite deep personal loss, Naumov rebuilt his career, formed a new coaching team, and captured bronze at the U.S. championships to secure his Olympic berth — fulfilling a dream he shared with his parents since childhood.
Women’s Singles: Experience and a Return to Glory
A Daredevil on Ice — Amber Glenn
Amber Glenn, 26, leads the women’s pack with experience and guts. At the U.S. championships, Glenn earned her third consecutive national title — a feat rare in American women’s skating — and continues to attempt the triple Axel, a jump few competitors attempt.
Her late‑blooming success and mature presence make her both a fan favorite and a fierce competitor in Italy.
Alysa Liu – Comeback Queen
After winning her first world championship and stepping away from competition at just 16, Alysa Liu stunned the skating world by returning to elite competition and immediately reclaiming her place among the best.
Liu’s elegant power and youthful fearlessness have made her one of the sport’s brightest young stars.
Isabeau Levito – Grace Meets Glamour
At 18, Isabeau Levito combines athletic prowess with poise, bringing a polished performance quality that evokes classic skating icons. Born into skating, Levito’s Olympic debut in her mother’s hometown will be both personal and deeply symbolic.
Ice Dance and Pairs: Storytelling and Strength
Madison Chock & Evan Bates — Ice Dance Veterans
The married duo of Madison Chock and Evan Bates secured a record seventh U.S. national title and will compete in their fourth Olympic Games together. While an Olympic gold has eluded them, their artistic prowess and emotional depth make them medal contenders.
Emilea Zingas & Vadym Kolesnik
Rising through the ranks with thrilling performances, Zingas and Kolesnik bring kinetic energy and creative flair to the ice dance discipline. Their chemistry and fearless programs make them one to watch in Milan.
Christina Carreira & Anthony Ponomarenko
Newly eligible for the Olympics after Carreira’s U.S. citizenship, the pair’s dramatic and theatrical programs have garnered praise from champions around the world.
Pairs Teams — Ellie Kam & Danny O’Shea / Emily Chan & Spencer Howe
In pairs, two U.S. teams earned Olympic spots. Ellie Kam and Danny O’Shea bring a compelling debut pairing, while Emily Chan and Spencer Howe — the latter an Army soldier — combine athletic versatility with on‑ice power.
Looking Ahead to Milan‑Cortina 2026
With a roster rich in narrative — from elite technical prowess to personal resilience — the U.S. figure skating team is poised for a memorable Winter Games. These athletes embody the spirit of perseverance and innovation, uniting diverse backgrounds and skating styles under one flag.
As the countdown to February continues, all eyes will be on Milan‑Cortina to see if this dynamic team can translate national success into Olympic medals.
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