As the number of unawarded medals at the Milan Cortina Olympics dwindles and the competition comes to a close, a no-stakes event remains on the Winter Olympics schedule.
The Olympic Figure Skating Gala, a non-competitive showcase scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m. California time at the Forum di Milano, will take place just two days after the conclusion of the figure skating competitions.
Invitations to the gala are handed out to medalists and skaters who meet certain criteria, including the quality of an athlete’s seasonal performances, charisma and ability to engage local and international audiences.
The lineup of American skaters includes Olympians Amber Glenn and Ilia Malinin, who helped the men’s team earn gold.
Malinin, dubbed the “Quad God,” was a gold medal hopeful entering the competition, but stumbled during his free skate performance and placed eighth in the men’s singles.
Oakland native and UCLA Bruin Alysa Liu, who won the U.S.’s first Olympic women’s figure skating gold medal in 24 years Friday, also confirmed her attendance.
Alysa Liu shared what she plans to skate to at the Olympic Gala performance.
Iconic ice dance couple Madison Chock of Redondo Beach and Evan Bates, who both won silver and gold medals in Milan, will also take the ice.
The event provides skaters an opportunity to perform without the pressure of scores or medals, serving as a “celebration of artistry on ice.”
Spectators can expect to see unique costumes and performances as skaters show off their full imagination and creativity.
For instance, Kazakhstan’s Mikhail Shaidorov shocked fans when he showcased a full panda costume at the International Skating Union Grand Prix Final in December 2024.
At this year’s gala, Olympic bronze medalist Carolina Kostner will open the event with a “new, innovative performance.”
Click here to learn how to watch Saturday’s event.
The Milan Cortina Olympics are Feb. 6 to Feb. 22. Click here for a full events schedule. The Winter Paralympics are March to March 15 in Italy.
Los Angeles is the Olympics’ next stop in 2028. The LA 2028 Olympics Opening Ceremony is July 14, 2028 with competition through July 30, 2028. The LA28 Paralympic Games will kick off Aug. 15, 2028 and close Aug. 27, 2028.
The Olympics will return to Los Angeles for an historic third time in 2028, but this will be the city’s first time as host of the Paralympic Games.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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