Skating’s four major disciplines to unite in new world format

The International Skating Union (ISU) is preparing a sweeping reform of its world championships, with plans to combine multiple disciplines into a single global event.

One event, multiple disciplines

Under a proposal being developed by ISU leadership, competitions for figure skating, synchronized skating, speed skating and short track speed skating would be held together as part of a new Combined World Championships format.

If approved, the revamped event would debut in 2027 and function as a «super tournament,» bringing together athletes from across the skating world. Until now, world championships in these disciplines have been staged as separate events.

A historic governing body

Founded in 1892, the ISU is one of the world’s oldest international sports federations. The organization is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, a global hub for international sports governance.