Ilia Malinin Shares 2026 Olympics Dreams and Goals

Figure skater discusses his aspirations for the upcoming Winter Games

Feb. 4, 2026 at 5:55am

Ilia Malinin, the rising American figure skating star, recently joined the Milan Magic vodcast with journalists Christine Brennan and Brian Boitano. During the interview, Malinin opened up about the dreams he's been having about the 2026 Winter Olympics and his goals for the upcoming games.

Why it matters

Malinin is considered one of the top contenders for the U.S. figure skating team heading into the 2026 Olympics. His performance and participation in the team event could have a significant impact on the American squad's chances of medaling.

The details

On the vodcast, Malinin expressed some hesitation about the possibility of skating both parts of the Olympic team event, saying "It's too much responsibility." The team event requires skaters to compete in both the short program and free skate, adding an extra element of pressure and fatigue. Malinin's comments suggest he may be weighing the pros and cons of taking on that full workload at the Winter Games.

  • The 2026 Winter Olympics are scheduled to take place in Milan, Italy.

The players

Ilia Malinin

A rising American figure skating star who is considered a top contender for the U.S. Olympic team heading into the 2026 Winter Games.

Christine Brennan

A journalist who interviewed Malinin on the Milan Magic vodcast.

Brian Boitano

A journalist who interviewed Malinin on the Milan Magic vodcast.

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What they’re saying

“It's too much responsibility”

— Ilia Malinin

The takeaway

Ilia Malinin's comments on the Milan Magic vodcast suggest he may be hesitant about the prospect of competing in both parts of the Olympic team event at the 2026 Winter Games, citing the added pressure and responsibility. This could be a strategic consideration as he prepares for the upcoming Olympics.