Synchro9, the International Skating Union’s new Synchronized Skating format, made its official debut at the ISU Synchronized Skating World Championships 2026 in Salzburg, Austria, receiving an enthusiastic response from fans and the skating community.

After months of development, the innovative nine-skater format was showcased by demonstration teams from Canada, Finland, and the United States, offering a first look at what could shape the future of the sport.

The new format will be introduced in competition during the 2026/2027 season and is set to feature at the ISU Synchronized Skating World Championships 2027 in Nottingham, Great Britain. Looking ahead, Synchronized Skating is also on track for its historic debut at the Winter Youth Olympic Games 2028.

©International Skating Union - Synchro9 Team USA at ISU Synchronized Skating World Championships 2026

From Concept to Ice: Why Synchro9 Was Created

The idea of reducing team size in Synchronized Skating has been under discussion for years, largely driven by Olympic feasibility.

“It has become very clear that Olympic inclusion with 16 skaters is not feasible due to constraints at the Olympic Village,” said Ida Hellström of the ISU Technical Committee.

The decision to move to nine skaters came after consultations with experts and the International Olympic Committee, aiming to preserve the essence of Synchronized Skating while making it more accessible and scalable.

Testing began in Finland, with Canada and the United States quickly joining the development phase. Coaches and skaters collaborated closely to bring the concept to life.

“It took us just 48 hours to form a team,” said Marilyn Langlois, coach of Canada’s Les Suprêmes, highlighting the excitement and urgency behind the project.

 ©International Skating Union - Synchro9 Team Finland at ISU Synchronized Skating World Championships 2026

Faster, More Dynamic Performances

At its debut in Salzburg, Synchro9 delivered a faster and more dynamic version of Synchronized Skating.

With fewer skaters on the ice, performances featured:

• Increased speed and tempo 
• New elements such as dance sequences and lifts 
• Greater creative freedom in choreography 

The sold-out Salzburgarena responded with strong energy, reflecting the format’s immediate appeal.

“We could hear the crowd clapping and see people dancing. It felt amazing,” said Finland’s Roosa Latvala.

Athletes highlighted the connection with the audience and the freedom to innovate.

“We really tried to include elements that haven’t been seen before,” added U.S. skater Kiley Scoleri.

 ©International Skating Union - Synchro9 Team USA at ISU Synchronized Skating World Championships 2026

What Comes Next for Synchro9

The next phase focuses on building the competitive structure for Synchro9, including:

• Finalizing rules and technical requirements 
• Training judges for a simplified scoring system 
• Launching the first official competitions in fall 2026 

Core Synchronized Skating elements such as circles, blocks, wheels, lines, and intersections will remain, ensuring continuity with the traditional discipline.

“With nine skaters, new possibilities open up while keeping the elements audiences love,” Hellström explained.

 ©International Skating Union - Synchro9 Team Finland at ISU Synchronized Skating World Championships 2026

A Strategic Evolution for the Sport

Synchro9 represents more than a new format. It is a strategic evolution designed to:

• Increase accessibility for more countries 
• Attract new audiences and younger fans 
• Support long-term Olympic ambitions 

The format also introduces new opportunities for event presentation, including themed competition rounds, head-to-head battles, and enhanced entertainment elements such as DJs and live music.

“Synchro skating is already a celebration of energy and community,” said ISU Director General Colin Smith. “Synchro9 takes it to the next level.”

 ©International Skating Union - Synchro9 Team Canada at ISU Synchronized Skating World Championships 2026

Synchro9: The Future of Synchronized Skating

With its successful debut and clear development roadmap, Synchro9 positions Synchronized Skating for growth on the global stage.

Blending innovation with tradition, the format delivers a faster, more engaging experience for fans while opening new pathways for athletes and federations worldwide.