And so it begins for Japanese figure skating’s best and brightest who have their eyes on Milano Cortina 2026.
Several of Japan’s top skaters will launch their Olympic season this week in Osaka with the inaugural 5-7 September Kinoshita Group Cup, the first-ever ISU Challenger Series event to be held in the country.
Previously, Japanese skaters had to make the trip abroad to kick-start their campaign but now with the newly minted competition, they are able to save time and energy preparing for the grind in the comfort of their home rinks.
Gold-medal hopes in women’s singles and pairs at the upcoming Games, world champions Sakamoto Kaori and Miura Riku/Kihara Ryuichi will headline the field.
Widely tipped to accompany Sakamoto to Milano Cortina, world bronze medallist Chiba Mone and Beijing 2022 Olympian Higuchi Wakaba are also throwing their hat into the ring.
From Japan’s neighbours the Republic of Korea, world silver medallists Cha Junhwan and Lee Haein will enter, as well as Olympic team bronze medallist Bradie Tennell from the United States.
Find the full entry list for the three-day meet at Kanku Ice Arena here. Below is the full schedule and how to watch the competition live.