2026 Winter Olympics Women Single Skating Free Skating: When and where to watch live and for free

The spotlight shifts to the final figure skating medals of the Games as the 2026 Winter Olympics women's single skating free skating event takes centre stage on Wednesday afternoon, promising high drama, technical brilliance, and podium suspense. After a gripping short programme set up a tightly contested leaderboard, fans are eagerly awaiting the decisive women's free skating 2026 segment, where Olympic glory will be sealed on the ice.

Here’s all you need to know about when and where to watch the event live, including options to stream it for free.

When Is the Women’s Free Skate?

The 2026 Winter Olympics women's single skating free skating competition is scheduled for 1 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on February 19.


The free skate marks the culmination of the women’s singles competition, combining with short programme scores to determine the final standings and medal winners.

With margins razor-thin at the top, even a minor error, or a perfectly executed triple jump combination, could alter the podium outcome.

Where to Watch Live on TV

In the United States, the entire women’s free skating event will be broadcast live on NBC.

As the official broadcaster of the Olympics in the US, NBC is airing comprehensive coverage of figure skating, including the medal-deciding performances in the women’s singles discipline.

Viewers with a traditional cable subscription can tune in directly through their local NBC channel.

How to Stream Live: Including Free Options

For cord-cutters, several live streaming options are available to catch the women's free skating 2026 event, as per a report by Decider.

Peacock, the official streaming home of the Olympics in the United States, is carrying the event live. Subscriptions begin at USD 10.99 per month, offering access to full Olympic coverage, including replays and highlights.

Those looking to stream the event without immediate cost can consider a live TV streaming service that offers a free trial. DIRECTV Stream, for instance, provides a five-day free trial that includes NBC in its channel lineup. After the trial period, subscription plans start at USD 49.99 per month.

Other streaming platforms that carry NBC, depending on regional availability, may also provide limited free trial offers.

Viewers are advised to check availability in their respective regions, as streaming rights and access vary internationally.

Medal Race: What to Expect

The short programme delivered electrifying performances and set up an intense medal battle.

Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto, the 2022 Olympic bronze medallist, remains firmly in contention, alongside teenage compatriot Ami Nakai. Both delivered commanding performances in the opening segment.

Among Team USA’s contenders, Alysa Liu put forth the strongest showing in the short programme and currently sits in third place, well-positioned for a potential podium finish.

Isabeau Levito stands eighth after her routine set to a Sophia Loren medley, while Amber Glenn is placed 13th following a missed triple loop that cost her crucial points.

The free skate, with its longer routines and higher base values, offers skaters a final opportunity to climb the rankings, or consolidate their advantage.

Full Start List Highlights

The event features a diverse international lineup, including skaters from France, Switzerland, Israel, China, Poland, Italy, Austria, Romania, Finland, South Korea, Kazakhstan, Belgium, Estonia, Georgia, Japan and the United States.

Among notable names scheduled to take the ice are:

• Amber Glenn (USA)
  
• Isabeau Levito (USA)
  
• Alysa Liu (USA)
  
• Kaori Sakamoto (JPN)
  
• Ami Nakai (JPN)
  
• Mone Chiba (JPN)
  
• Loena Hendrickx (BEL)
  
• Haein Lee (KOR)
  

The final skating order is based on short programme results, with top contenders typically performing in the last group.

What’s Next After the Free Skate?

Following the medal ceremony, figure skating fans can look ahead to the traditional Olympic gala exhibition, scheduled for February 21 at 2 p.m. ET.

The exhibition, often a celebratory showcase of medalists and standout performers, will stream live on Peacock. Team USA skater Ilia Malinin and ice dance champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates are already confirmed participants, while women’s singles representatives will be determined after the conclusion of the free skate.

FAQs

What time does the 2026 Winter Olympics women's single skating free skating start?

The event begins at 1 p.m. ET on February 19.

Where can I watch women's free skating 2026 live?

It will air live on NBC and stream on Peacock. Live TV streaming services that include NBC may also carry the event.