### U.S. Figure Skating Championships: A Crucial Step Towards the 2026 Olympics The 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, taking place in St. Louis, are pivotal as they will determine which skaters will represent the United States at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in February. This event not only showcases the nation's top talent but also serves as a critical qualifier for Olympic spots, adding an extra layer of intensity and excitement to the competition. The championships are expected to deliver high-stakes performances from elite athletes vying for their chance to compete on the world stage [https://www.wbjb.org/2026-01-09/u-s-figure-skating-championships-will-determine-whos-going-to-the-olympics]. ### Structure of the Championships and Viewing Information 1. **Event Overview**: The championships are set to take place this week, featuring various categories including singles, pairs, and ice dance competitions. 2. **Olympic Selection**: The results will directly influence the selection of the U.S. Olympic team for the 2026 Winter Games, making this event crucial for athletes. 3. **Viewing Options**: Fans can watch the championships through various platforms, including NBC and streaming services, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience [https://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/article/how-to-watch-the-2026-us-figure-skating-championships-schedule-channel-where-to-stream-and-more-195511730.html, https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/olympics/2026-milan-cortina/us-figure-skating-championships-tv-channel-stream-info/4328667]. ### Key Data and Viewing Details - **Event Dates**: The championships are scheduled for January 9-15, 2026. - **Broadcasting**: Coverage will be available on NBC and its streaming platforms, with specific channels and times detailed for viewers [https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/watch-2026-us-figure-skating-championships-livestream-online-1236465175]. - **Athlete Participation**: Top skaters from across the country will compete, showcasing Olympic-level talent and drama [https://flurrysports.org/us-figure-skating-championships-2026-live-schedule-how-to-watch-in-canada]. ### Conclusion: A Defining Moment for U.S. Figure Skating In summary, the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships represent a defining moment for American figure skaters as they vie for Olympic selection. 1. **Critical Event**: The championships will determine the U.S. Olympic team for the Milan-Cortina Games. 2. **High Stakes**: Athletes will compete under intense pressure, showcasing their skills and artistry. 3. **Accessibility**: The event will be widely accessible to fans through various viewing options, ensuring that the excitement reaches a broad audience. The outcomes of this competition will not only shape the future of U.S. figure skating but also set the stage for the upcoming Winter Olympics [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/tsn/news/watch-us-figure-skating-championships-schedule-channels-streams-2026/8eb0f509f26c2645a9a55332].