Milano Cortina 2026: Day 9 Schedule - Ellia Smeding returns for the 500m, Ana & Luke open the Pairs event

Day 9 brings a brilliant double bill for British Ice Skating fans, with long track speed skating and figure skating both on the agenda for Milano Cortina 2026.

First up, Ellia Smeding is back on the ice for the Women’s 500m - the pure sprint of long track speed skating, where every hundredth of a second counts. Later, Anastasia Vaipan-Law & Luke Digby take to the Olympic stage in the Pairs Short Program, kicking off their competition with a performance that blends power, precision, and partnership.

Today’s schedule (UK time) for Milano Cortina 2026

• 4:03pm — Long Track Speed Skating | Women’s 500m (Ellia Smeding)

• 6:45pm — Figure Skating | Pairs Short Program (Anastasia Vaipan-Law & Luke Digby)

Long Track Speed Skating: Women’s 500m (4:03pm)

The 500m is the shortest distance in long track speed skating - and one of the most unforgiving. There’s no time to settle in: it’s all about reaction speed off the start, clean technique through the corners, and holding top-end power to the line.

After a huge week already on Olympic ice, Ellia Smeding returns for a distance that demands a slightly different kind of edge: explosive acceleration and fearless commitment from the first push. It’s fast, it’s intense, and it’s over in a flash — but it’s also one of the most exciting events to watch, because margins are always razor-thin.

What to watch for

• The start: the first few strides can shape the entire race

• Corner speed: maintaining momentum through the bend is crucial

• Tiny margins: one small mistake can cost places in an instant

  
  

If you’re new to speed skating, this is a great event to fall in love with - pure speed, pure drama, and an incredible showcase of athleticism.

Figure Skating: Pairs Short Program (6:45pm)

Later today, it’s time for Anastasia Vaipan-Law & Luke Digby to begin their Pairs competition in the Short Program — the opening segment that sets the tone for the event and lays the foundations for what comes next.

Pairs is one of the most spectacular disciplines in figure skating, combining side-by-side skating skills with elements that only a true partnership can deliver - including big lifts, throws, and lightning-quick timing that has to be completely in sync.

The Short Program is where precision is everything: it’s tightly structured, with required elements, and rewards clean execution, strong skating skills, and performance quality under pressure.

What to watch for

• Synchronisation: side-by-side elements need matching timing and technique

• Big moments: watch for the height, speed, and flow through major elements

• Performance under pressure: the Short Program is about control and confidence

  
  

Ana & Luke have worked relentlessly to reach this stage - and tonight is their moment to bring it all together under the Olympic lights.

How to watch and follow

Full viewing information, schedule updates, and coverage links are available via the British Ice Skating Olympic Hub. You’ll also find the latest news, results, and daily round-ups — so you never miss a moment of Team GB on the ice.

Inspired by what you’re watching?

The Olympics has a way of making people want to try the sport for themselves - and that’s exactly what Inspire To Skate is all about. Whether you’re watching Ellia fly down the straight or Ana & Luke light up the arena, this is your sign to take that first step onto the ice.

Head to the British Ice Skating Olympic Hub to learn more and find out how to get involved.