The International Skating Union (ISU) is delighted to unveil a groundbreaking development in Synchronized Skating with the launch of “Synchro 9”– an innovative competitive category designed to elevate the discipline, expand its global reach, and strengthen its pathway toward an Olympic future. 

Team Passion of Hungary performs during the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships 2024 in Zagreb, Croatia.© ISU

This new event format, featuring teams of 9 skaters, was approved by the ISU Council (read ISU Communication 2759) with the objective of enhancing the sport’s unique team spirit, sense of community and strong emotional appeal.  

Gold medal winners Team Les Supremes of Canada react after the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships 2024 in Zagreb, Croatia.© ISU

The ISU is also proud to share that Synchro 9 has already reached a historic milestone, becoming the first Synchronized Skating category ever included in the Olympic program at the Dolomiti Valtellina 2028 Winter Youth Olympic Games (YOG). This inclusion will enable broader participation and provide young skaters with greater opportunities to compete on the Olympic stage.

Aligned with ISU Vision 2030, the ambition behind the Synchro 9 model is to drive the growth of Synchronized Skating through a dynamic new event concept, a simplified judging system, and a show-enhanced, television-friendly approach - offering fresh perspectives for both audiences and skaters.

Team Ice Fire Junior of Poland performs during to ISU World Junior Synchronized Skating Championships 2025 in Gothenburg, Sweden.© ISU

ISU President Jae Youl Kim said: “Synchro 9 reflects our commitment to unlocking the full potential of Synchronized Skating. By addressing barriers to entry, simplifying the format, and elevating team spirit, artistry, and emotional connection, we aim to reveal the true essence of this unique discipline. The inclusion of Synchro 9 in the 2028 Winter Youth Olympic Games marks the first key milestone in this journey, demonstrating the discipline’s growing relevance and promise. We believe Synchro 9 will open new doors for athletes, audiences, and countries worldwide as we advance confidently toward its Olympic future.”

The new Synchro 9 Category at a Glance 

Unique Format: 

• Synchro 9 is built around a unique format providing head-to-head battles between teams of nine skaters for enhanced competitiveness. 
• It will feature a rebooted judging system that is clear, intuitive, and anchored in team dynamics and creativity, ensuring greater transparency and audience understanding. 
• This will result in a spectacular show, with a broadcast-friendly format that delivers emotional impact.  

Team Olympia of Czechia performs during the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships 2025 in Helsinki, Finland. © ISU 

The new format is built on three key pillars:

1. Smaller teams: 

• Teams of 9 skaters will make it easier for Member Federations to create new teams enhancing inclusivity and accessibility. 
• It will also create more opportunities to capture performances on camera and for audiences to enjoy skaters’ shapes, speed, and formations.

2. Thrilling competition: 

• A knockout structure in a battle format will increase suspense and deliver a compelling viewer experience.

3. Themed rounds:

• Teams will perform within common theme rounds, enabling strong narrative expression under equal conditions.

Showcasing Synchro 9 to the World

Synchro 9 will be officially presented through demonstration performances at two major upcoming ISU events: 

• ISU World Figure Skating Championships 2026 in Prague - one Synchro 9 team featured at the Gala Exhibition
• ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships 2026 in Salzburg - three Synchro 9 demonstration teams 

These showcases will introduce the discipline to athletes, officials, broadcasters, and international audiences.