The opening day of the 2026 ISU Congress provided insight into how the International Skating Union (ISU) plans to shape figure skating during the current Olympic cycle and beyond.

Among the key announcements were a revamped Grand Prix structure beginning in 2027-28, a new judge evaluation system, increased prize money, progress on music rights and plans to make the sport easier for fans to understand.

New Grand Prix Format Coming in 2027-28

ISU Director General Colin Smith presented the federation’s new long-term event calendar strategy, which will begin with the 2027-28 season.

As part of the new strategy, the ISU plans to introduce a revised Grand Prix format featuring two Grand Prix semifinals before the Grand Prix Final.

The ISU did not provide additional details about how the semifinal format will operate. The federation said the new calendar is designed to provide greater visibility for Members, athletes, hosting countries and commercial partners while creating additional opportunities for competition and event hosting.

Data-Driven Judge Evaluation System to Launch

The ISU also announced a new judge evaluation and appointment system developed in collaboration with Maelstrom.

The system analyzes judging data from the past three seasons, covering 84 competitions and more than 500 judges. It evaluates scoring accuracy, consistency and fairness.

Starting next season, the ISU will use the rankings when appointing judges for the ISU World Figure Skating Championships. The federation said it plans to expand the approach to additional major events in future seasons.

The ISU also announced the appointment of Emilie Billow as Head of Officials for Figure Skating.

Prize Money Set to Increase

ISU President Jae Youl Kim proposed a significant increase in athlete prize money for the next Olympic cycle.

Prize money would increase from USD 5.4 million in 2025-26 to USD 11.1 million in 2026-27, with a further increase to USD 12 million planned for 2027-28.

The ISU also plans to increase travel contributions to Member federations from USD 2.4 million in 2025-26 to USD 4.5 million by 2027-28.

No Major Rule Changes Planned Before 2030

Kim also discussed the future of figure skating rules and judging.

According to the president, the ISU wants to make the sport easier for fans to understand while preserving its technical complexity and integrity.

Kim said the ISU does not plan to introduce major structural changes during the current Olympic cycle through 2030.

Instead, the federation will work on potential reforms for the following cycle. Any proposed changes would be developed, tested and announced by 2028 to allow athletes and coaches sufficient time to prepare.

Progress on Music Rights

Kim also provided an update on the ongoing music rights issue that has affected the availability of competition videos online.

He said the ISU continues to treat the matter as a priority and is close to reaching an agreement with a major label.

The president did not provide a timeline for a potential agreement.

Technology Partnerships Continue

The federation also highlighted partnerships with Swiss Timing and Aiving as part of its plans for the next Olympic cycle.

According to Kim, the ISU is exploring new technologies that could support officiating, athlete performance analysis and coaching while enhancing the experience for athletes, officials and fans.

Looking Ahead

Much of Day 1 focused on reports outlining the ISU’s Vision 2030 strategy and reviewing progress made during the current Olympic cycle.

ISU leadership identified several priorities for the coming years, including athlete support, judging accountability, technological innovation and continued growth of the sport.

Additional proposals and discussions are expected as the 60th ISU Congress continues in Tenerife over the next two days.

Overview of the 60th ISU Congress

DAY 1: Wednesday, 10 June 2026 RECAP

• ISU President’s and Director General’s Reports
• Financial Reports
• Budget Approvals
• Partner Presentations
  • Deloitte
  • Swiss Timing
  • Maelstrom

DAY 2: Thursday, 11 June 2026 RECAP

• Legal Advisor’s Report
• Disciplinary Commission Report
• Athletes Committee’s Report
• Medical & Anti-Doping Commission Report
• Athlete Welfare Report
• Technical Committee Reports

DAY 3: Friday, 12 June 2026 RECAP

Elections & Closing

• ISU President
• Vice Presidents
• Council Members
• Technical Committee Chairs and Members
• Audit, Risk & Investment Committee
• Disciplinary Commission
• Skating Integrity Unit Board

Paula Slater

Founder of Golden Skate in 1999, Paula has followed the sport of figure skating for over four decades. A retired U.S. Army veteran, she takes joy in promoting the sport worldwide, covering events, interviewing skaters, and providing resources. She holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and in her free time, enjoys reading, walking her dogs, painting, and consuming large quantities of coffee.