Emily Chan and Spencer Howe Compete as Olympic Figure Skating Pair

The 2023 U.S. silver medalists are making their Olympic debut in Milan.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Olympic figure skating pair Emily Chan and Spencer Howe will compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. The two have been skating together since 2019 and are making their first Olympic appearance. While they have a strong working relationship on the ice, the pair is not romantically involved off the ice.

Why it matters

The pairs figure skating competition at the Winter Olympics is always a highlight, showcasing the athleticism, artistry, and teamwork of the top skaters in the world. Chan and Howe's Olympic debut is a significant milestone in their careers and will be closely watched by figure skating fans.

The details

Chan and Howe earned the second pairs spot for the U.S. at the 2026 Olympics after the gold medalist at the 2023 U.S. nationals, Alisa Efimova, was unable to compete in time. The pair has faced challenges, including Howe's ongoing shoulder issues, but have persevered to reach this level of competition. Chan started skating at a young age, with her mother making all of her competition costumes.

  • Emily Chan and Spencer Howe have been skating together since 2019.
  • They won the silver medal at the 2023 U.S. national championships.
  • The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan will be their first Olympic appearance.

The players

Emily Chan

An Olympic figure skater competing in pairs with Spencer Howe. She started skating at a young age, and her mother has made all of her competition costumes.

Spencer Howe

An Olympic figure skater competing in pairs with Emily Chan. He has struggled with shoulder injuries throughout his career but has persevered to reach the Olympics with Chan.

Alisa Efimova

The gold medalist at the 2023 U.S. national figure skating championships, who was unable to compete in time for the 2026 Olympics, allowing Chan and Howe to earn the second pairs spot for the U.S.

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What they’re saying

“When we first got together, I was teetering between even continuing my skating career just because the shoulder injuries were continuing to be a burden to the success of my skating and my career.”

— Spencer Howe, Olympic Figure Skater (Boston.com)

“Our career has come with a lot of ups and downs. You name it, we've probably gone through it. So to be able to achieve this kind of level of skating together just makes it that much more special.”

— Spencer Howe, Olympic Figure Skater (Boston.com)

What’s next

The pairs figure skating competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan will take place on Sunday, February 15.

The takeaway

Despite the challenges they have faced, including Howe's shoulder injuries, Chan and Howe have persevered to reach the pinnacle of their sport, earning a spot on the U.S. Olympic team and making their debut at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan.