The 2025 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 Singles 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 Singles Skating?
Singles skating is one of the most iconic disciplines in figure skating, showcasing individual athleticism, artistry, and precision. This discipline is divided into two categories: Men’s Singles and Women’s Singles, each featuring skaters performing intricate routines that combine technical elements and captivating choreography.
In singles skating, athletes perform on their own, executing a series of required elements during their programs. These elements include:
Jumps: Such as the famous Triple Axel (the ‘triple’ indicates how many times the skater must rotate in the air during the jump).
Spins: Including upright, sit, and ‘camel’ positions, they demonstrate flexibility and control.
Step Sequences: Complex footwork patterns that cover the ice, often showcasing the skater’s artistry and quality of the steps and turns.
Each performance is evaluated using the International Judging System (IJS), which scores skaters based on the technical execution of elements and the presentation of their routine. The IJS breaks down scores into two main components:
Technical Element Score (TES): Points awarded for the technical execution of elements. Each element, such as a jump or spin, has a base points value assigned by the ISU (International Skating Union). For example, a triple Lutz has a base value of 5.90 points, while a quad Lutz (requiring an additional rotation in the air) starts at 11.50 points.
Judges add or subtract points based on the element’s Grade of Execution (GOE) – how well it has been performed – ranging from -5 to +5.
Program Components Score (PCS): This reflects the artistic and presentation aspects of the performance. PCS is divided into three categories:
Skating Skills: Quality of edge work and overall control.
Composition: Choreographic structure and coherence.
Presentation: Demonstration of engagement, expression and musicality.
The combined TES and PCS form the total score for each program.
Singles Skating Competition Format
Who to Watch at the 2025 European Championships
Why Watch Singles 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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