If accepted, several proposals could have an impact on synchronized skating. (Credits: Paul Carrolo, UnisonPhoto - 2024)

From June 8-14, 2024, the 59th ISU Congress in Las Vegas will introduce some proposals for synchronized skating. Highlights include the creation of a Senior combined category, new qualification scores, and simplified technical rules.

The upcoming 59th ISU Congress will discuss several significant proposals concerning synchronized skating. These proposals are designed to streamline rules, enhance competitive fairness, and allow greater freedom in choreography, explains the ISU.

Here are the key proposals under the "Special Regulations and Technical Rules" for synchronized skating:

This proposal aims to merge the Senior Elite 12 and Senior categories into a single Senior combined category for all international competitions. This change acknowledges the similarity in age requirements between the two categories and is expected to simplify the competition structure while ensuring a higher level of performance across the board.

A new requirement will be introduced for teams to achieve a Minimum Total Elements Score and Combined Total Element Scores to qualify for ISU Championships. This measure ensures that only teams meeting a certain standard of technical proficiency can compete at the highest levels, thereby raising the overall quality of the championships.

It is proposed that the starting order of the Free Skating segment be in reverse order of the results after the Short Program for all international and ISU competitions. This approach rewards teams that perform well in the Short Program by allowing them to skate last in the Free Skating, which is traditionally considered an advantageous position.

This proposal includes simplifying and reorganizing the Technical Rules to leave more freedom for choreography. This change aims to encourage creative and innovative routines by reducing the complexity and rigidity of the current rules.

Another proposal suggests removing un-sustained lifts from the list of illegal elements for all categories. This change would allow for a greater variety of lifts in programs, potentially making performances more dynamic and creative.

In addition to the significant proposals for synchronized skating, other notable changes will be discussed at the ISU Congress.

For example, a proposal from Japan (n°177) recommends that events should not start before 9:00 AM and should finish by 10:00 PM instead of the current end time of 11:00 PM. This change aims to improve competitions scheduling and ensure better rest periods for athletes and officials. 

Furthermore, a proposal from Canada (n°27) suggests that technical committees publish the following season’s technical requirements by April 15 each year. This would give coaches and skaters ample time to prepare, ensuring a smoother transition and better readiness for upcoming season. This would also apply to synchronized skating. 

Of course, these proposals are not yet definitive. They will have to be discussed and accepted at the Congress. We'll keep you posted!