The 2025 ISU European Figure Skating Championships has arrived! One of the most prestigious events on the figure skating calendar, attracting top athletes from across the continent, this year’s event is taking place in Tallinn, Estonia.
This article series aims to help newcomers understand the sport and get the most out of watching the event, whether in person or from the comfort of your home!
Read on to learn about Pairs Figure Skating, find out who will be representing GB at this year’s European Championships and key information about the competition format and scoring, plus when and where to watch!
What is Pairs Skating?
Pairs skating is one of the most awe-inspiring disciplines in figure skating, showcasing the seamless coordination, strength, and artistry of two skaters performing together. This discipline features intricate lifts, synchronised jumps and spins, and daring throw jumps that captivate audiences worldwide. For newcomers to the sport, pairs skating offers an exciting introduction to the unique combination of athleticism and partnership on the ice.
In pairs skating, two athletes perform together, combining individual technical elements with unique partner elements. These include:
Lifts: The male partner lifts the female partner overhead, showcasing strength, balance, and creativity in positions, with a variety of holds and variations.
Throw Jumps: The male partner throws the female partner into the air, where she executes rotations before landing.
Side-by-Side Jumps: Both skaters perform jumps simultaneously, demonstrating synchronisation and precision.
Twist Lifts: The male partner assists the female partner into the air, where she completes rotations before being caught.
Death Spirals: The female partner circles the male partner in a dramatic low position while holding his hand, demonstrating edge control and trust - although not quite as dramatic as the name suggests!
How is Pairs Skating Scored?
Pairs Skating Competition Format
Unique Elements of Pairs Skating
Who to Watch at the 2025 European Championships
Why Watch Pairs Skating?
How to Watch the ISU European Figure Skating Championships 2025
Watch the Best of European Figure Skating In Person: Sheffield 2026
The excitement doesn’t stop with the 2025 European Championships!
Looking ahead, the ISU Figure Skating European Championships 2026 will be taking place in Sheffield, UK at the Utilita Arena Sheffield, from 13th-18th January 2026 - the first time the UK has hosted this event in over a decade. This prestigious event will showcase the best skaters from across Europe on British ice, offering fans the opportunity to experience world-class figure skating up close.
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