U.S. Figure Skating celebrates the announcement by the International Olympic Committee that Synchro9 has been added to the competition programme for the Olympic Winter Games French Alps 2030. The decision marks a historic milestone for synchronized skating and creates an exciting new Olympic pathway for athletes around the world.
The IOC Executive Board announced the addition on July 7, 2026, alongside freeride skiing and snowboard, while Nordic combined was removed from the programme. The IOC set a record athlete quota of 3,046 for the 2030 Games, with 1,525 female and 1,521 male athletes.
"Today is a truly historic day for synchronized skating. We are incredibly proud that Synchro9 completes the ISU family of skating disciplines at the Olympic Winter Games. This decision fulfills a dream shared by thousands of synchronized skaters and millions of fans around the world. These remarkable athletes will have the opportunity to showcase their talent on the greatest stage in winter sport, at Alpes 2030." — Jae Youl Kim, ISU President
Synchro9 is the ISU's innovative nine-skater competition format designed to bring synchronized skating to an Olympic stage, showcasing the speed, precision, athleticism and artistry that have made it one of the sport's fastest-growing disciplines. The format made its showcase debut during the 2025-26 season with exhibition programs from Team Finland at the ISU World Figure Skating Championships 2026 in Prague, and from Team USA, Team Finland and Team Canada at the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships 2026. It will make its competitive debut at the Winter Youth Olympic Games Dolomiti Valtellina 2028.
Heather Paige, U.S. Figure Skating board vice president and a member of the ISU Synchro9 working group, reflected on the significance of the announcement for the synchronized skating community, saying it "is a celebration of everyone who has dedicated themselves to synchronized skating over the years."
For the United States, the announcement opens a new chapter. The Haydenettes, reigning U.S. synchronized skating champions and 2026 World silver medalists, are among the teams positioned to compete for a spot on the Olympic stage. U.S. Figure Skating looks forward to working alongside its member clubs, coaches and athletes as they embrace new competitive opportunities and continue building a strong pipeline of teams capable of competing for Olympic success in 2030 and beyond.
For full details on Synchro9 and Olympic qualification, visit usfigureskating.org.
