The new generation of figure skating stars is ready to shine this Thursday with the start of the ISU Junior Grand Prix of Figure Skating 2025/26, organized by the International Skating Union -ISU-. More than 300 young athletes from around the world will compete in seven events across Europe and Asia, aiming for the prestigious Final to be held in Nagoya (Japan) from December 4 to 7, 2025. The season opener will take place in Riga (Latvia) and will be streamed live on the official ISU YouTube channel.
Returning champions and key contenders
Since 1997, the ISU Junior Grand Prix has offered emerging skaters a unique platform to showcase their talent, passion, and potential on the international stage. This edition will feature standout names such as Mao Shimada, triple World Junior Champion, and Rio Nakata, reigning 2025 World Junior Champion. Also returning is Minkyu Seo, 2024 World Junior Champion and 2025 silver medalist, who enters the season with the goal of strengthening his position among the best.
Alongside these established figures, a new wave of skaters will debut in the circuit, eager to leave their mark after weeks of intensive preparation. “The Junior Grand Prix is a unique experience to test yourself, learn, and grow for the future,” said an ISU spokesperson.
Seven events and two new hosts
The calendar includes seven competitions that will determine the top skaters heading into the Nagoya Final. Participants will not only compete for podium finishes in each event but will also gain international experience and the opportunity to connect with fans around the world.
This year, the series expands its reach with two debut hosts: Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates will welcome a Junior Grand Prix event for the very first time. With this step, the ISU strengthens its commitment to bringing figure skating to new regions and enhancing its global growth.
Vision 2030 as the roadmap
The organization has emphasized that this international expansion is aligned with Vision 2030, the strategic framework designed to modernize governance and give new momentum to ice sports. “Promoting development, diversity, and inclusion is part of our identity and our future,” stated the ISU in a release.
Through this strategy, the institution seeks to ensure that figure skating continues to evolve as an accessible, appealing sport with an increasingly solid presence on the international stage.
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