As the world turns its eyes to Milano-Cortina for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the U.S. figure skating team steps onto the ice with a dazzling sense of purpose and a roster that has fans and analysts alike buzzing with anticipation. Not only does the team boast three reigning world champions—a feat that has not gone unnoticed by the global skating community—but it also features one of the sport’s most electrifying athletes: Ilia Malinin, better known as the "Quad God." With such a formidable lineup, whispers of Olympic gold are growing louder by the day.
On February 7, 2026, the U.S. figure skating team is making headlines for all the right reasons. The trio of world champions on the squad is a testament to the depth and quality of American skating talent. But it’s Ilia Malinin, the young phenom who has redefined what’s possible on the ice, who truly captures imaginations. Malinin’s nickname, the "Quad God," isn’t just for show. He’s earned it by consistently landing the most difficult quadruple jumps in competition—a technical prowess that sets him apart from his peers.
Legendary commentators and Olympic gold medalists Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir have been effusive in their praise for both Malinin and the entire U.S. team. According to Weir, “Ilia Malinin brings a level of difficulty and artistry that we haven’t seen in a generation. His ability to combine technical mastery with musicality is what makes him so special.” Lipinski adds, “It’s not just about the jumps. This team has a chemistry and confidence that’s palpable. They push each other to be better every day.”
The U.S. team’s current roster is the result of years of strategic development and investment in youth talent. Coaches and federation officials have focused on nurturing skaters who not only excel individually but also thrive in a team environment. The result? A squad that’s not simply a collection of stars, but a cohesive unit that supports and challenges one another—a rare dynamic in the often solitary world of figure skating.
Ilia Malinin’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Just a few years ago, he was a promising junior, known for his clean technique and fearless approach to competition. Now, he’s the face of U.S. figure skating, dazzling audiences with his signature quadruple axel and a repertoire of jumps that leaves judges and fans breathless. Malinin’s technical arsenal is matched only by his expressive performances, which blend athleticism and artistry in a way that feels almost revolutionary.
But Malinin isn’t carrying the team on his own. The two other reigning world champions—whose names have become synonymous with consistency and excellence—bring their own strengths to the table. Whether it’s the precision of their spins, the elegance of their choreography, or their steely nerves under pressure, each member of the team contributes to a collective momentum that seems almost unstoppable.
What’s especially striking about this U.S. squad is the way they’ve embraced the challenge of Olympic competition. For many athletes, the pressure of representing their country on the world’s biggest stage can be overwhelming. Yet, as Lipinski observes, “This team thrives on big moments. They’re not intimidated by the spotlight—they relish it.” That mindset could be the secret ingredient that propels them to the top of the podium.
Of course, the path to Olympic gold is never straightforward. The international field is stacked with talent, and the margin for error is razor-thin. Rivals from Japan, Russia, and Canada are all bringing their best to Milano-Cortina, setting the stage for one of the most hotly contested figure skating competitions in recent memory. But if the U.S. team’s performances at recent world championships are any indication, they’re more than ready to rise to the occasion.
Weir, reflecting on the team’s prospects, notes, “The combination of technical firepower and emotional connection with the audience is what sets this group apart. They have the ability to win the crowd and the judges at the same time.” It’s a sentiment echoed by fans, who have watched the team’s journey from national championships to the world stage with growing excitement.
Adding to the intrigue is the sense that this year’s Olympics could mark a turning point for American figure skating. Historically, the U.S. has enjoyed periods of dominance, but recent years have seen a resurgence of talent from other countries. Now, with three reigning world champions and a skater like Malinin leading the charge, there’s a feeling that the balance of power may be shifting once again.
Beyond the medals and accolades, what makes this U.S. team so compelling is their shared sense of purpose. Whether it’s in training sessions, team meetings, or post-competition celebrations, the camaraderie is evident. “They genuinely support each other,” says Lipinski. “You can see it in the way they interact on and off the ice. That kind of unity is rare, and it gives them an edge.”
As the competition unfolds in Milano-Cortina, all eyes will be on the U.S. figure skating team to see if they can translate their world championship success to Olympic glory. The stakes couldn’t be higher, but if their recent performances are any indication, they’re more than ready for the challenge. The “Quad God” and his teammates are not just chasing medals—they’re aiming to inspire a new generation of skaters and fans alike.
With the Olympic figure skating events now underway, the U.S. team’s quest for gold is very much alive. The action continues, and the world waits to see if this extraordinary group can etch their names into the annals of Olympic history. One thing’s for sure: with their mix of talent, determination, and showmanship, they’ve already captured the imagination of fans everywhere.