Chongqing – The Cup of China, part of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating series, launched on Friday at Huaxi LIVE in Chongqing, bringing together 60 elite skaters from 14 countries and regions for a three-day international competition.

Cup of China ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating kicks off in Chongqing. (Photo/Deng Nan)

Serving as the second stage of the Grand Prix circuit and a key qualifier for Chinese athletes aiming to compete in the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the event continues its 22-year legacy in China. Ren Hongguo, President of the China Figure Skating Association, highlighted in his opening remarks that the Cup of China has not only nurtured generations of Chinese skaters but also strengthened global cultural ties through ice sports.

Jin Boyang from China. (Photo/The Organizer)

The opening ceremony featured a display of national flags around the rink, symbolizing international unity and the shared spirit of sportsmanship. He Yousheng, Secretary of the CPC Banan Committee, pledged full support for the event's organization and invited global guests to enjoy local attractions such as ancient towns, hot springs, and iconic Chongqing hotpot.

The Cup of China has attracted audiences from all over the country. (Photo/The Organizer)

Competition days are scheduled for October 24 and 25 in men's and women's singles, pairs, and ice dance. The event will conclude on October 26 with a gala exhibition, during which skaters will perform in a relaxed, show-style format.

In figure skating competitions, audiences throw dolls to show their love for the skaters. (Photo/The Organizer)

Sui Wenjing and Han Cong Make Much-Anticipated Return

Chinese pairs skaters Sui Wenjing and Han Cong, gold medalists at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, made a high-profile return to competition at this year's Cup of China as part of their preparations for the Milan-Cortina 2026. Performing to "Carmen" and "Poetic Dance: The Journey of a Legendary Landscape Painting," the duo demonstrated standout throws and twists, along with world-class artistry, though they showed slight rust compared to their peak form. They scored 202.92 points, ranking third for the bronze medal.

Sui Wenjing and Han Cong. (Photo/The Organizer)

Star-Studded Field Offers Glimpse of Olympic Contenders

This year's lineup is among the strongest in recent memory, featuring numerous Olympic, World, and Four Continents champions across all categories. Key contenders include:  

- Women's Singles: 2025 World Champion Alysa Liu (USA) and Grand Prix Final winner Amber Glenn (USA)  

Alysa Liu from the USA. (Photo/The Organizer)

Amber Glenn from the USA. (Photo/The Organizer)

- Men's Singles: 2025 World silver medalist Mikhail Shaidorov (Kazakhstan) and 2023 World silver medalist Junhwan Cha (South Korea)  

Mikhail Shaidorov from Kazakhstan. (Photo/The Organizer)

Junhwan Cha from South Korea. (Photo/The Organizer)

- Pairs: 2025 World bronze medalists Sara Conti / Niccolo Macii (Italy) and two-time World Junior champions Anastasiia Metelkina / Luka Berulava (Georgia)  

Sara Conti and Niccolo Macii from Italy. (Photo/The Organizer)

Anastasiia Metelkina and Luka Berulava from Georgia. (Photo/The Organizer)

- Ice Dance: Three-time World champions Madison Chock / Evan Bates (USA)

Madison Chock and Evan Bates from the USA. (Photo/The Organizer)

Now in its fifth edition, hosted in Chongqing, the Cup of China continues to support China's post-Olympic vision to expand winter sports participation and reinforce international exchange through high-profile skating events.