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The 2026 World Figure Skating Championships will take place at Prague’s O2 Arena from March 24–29. The annual event is the premier competition organized by the International Skating Union and features the top athletes in men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance.

Figure Skating’s Global Stage Returns to Prague: Previewing Worlds 2026

This year the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships will take place March 24-29, roughly one month after the 2026 Winter Olympics. They will be held at the O2 Arena in Prague, making their first appearance in the Czech Republic for the first time in over 30 years. 

Worlds is a six-day event, featuring skaters across the globe. Similar to the Olympics, skaters will compete in four disciplines: Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Pairs, and Ice Dance. This year, an expected 200+ skaters from across 50 countries will compete for the podium. 

Key Athletes to Watch at the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships

Men’s: Few skaters will face more attention than Ilia Malinin, otherwise known as the Quadgod. After the pressure of the Olympics caused him to fall to 8th place, all eyes will be on Malinin to return skating as the champion we know. Many other Olympic familiar faces will skate as well. However, the gold medalist will not make an appearance at this Worlds. 

Women’s: Americans will delight as Alysa Liu, the reigning Olympic gold medalist, competes at this Worlds. Joined by Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito, the US brings a stacked lineup.

Pairs & Dance: For the U.S., note that Chock and Bates have withdrawn from this competition. Yet, team gold medalists Ellie Kim and Danny O’Shea will skate for the USA.

To see the full line up of skaters, check out ISU’s entries page!

2026 World Figure Skating Championships Schedule

• March 24: Official Practice
• March 25: Women’s Short & Pairs Short Program
• March 26: Men’s Short & Pairs Free Skate
• March 27: Ice Dance Rhythm Dance & Women Free Skate
• March 28: Men Free Skate & Ice Dance Free Dance
• March 29: Exhibition Gala 

What Makes Prague 2026 Special

In 2026, Worlds is a short month after the Winter Olympics, giving skaters the ability to defend their win streak or reclaim a podium spot. With a heightened rise in popularity from the Olympics, the competition comes at a perfect time – giving new fans a perfect event to look forward to.

Prague also holds deep European beauty and history, reflective of the figure skating sport. Prague has the honor of hosting Worlds for the third time (previously held in 1962 and 1993).

How to Watch the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships

US Figure Skating says that coverage will be available live on Peacock as well as NBC and USA Network. Check out the full list of ways to watch here!

I personally can’t wait to watch the Worlds competition to wrap up this skating season. With eyes fresh on these skaters from the Olympics, which skaters will rise or fall to expectations? And more importantly, who are you most excited to watch compete?