The Chock and Bates free dance highlighted Team USA’s performance in the figure skating team event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Madison Chock and Evan Bates competed in the ice dance free segment as representatives of the United States. Their performance added valuable points to the American team total. The free dance followed the rhythm dance earlier in the competition.
Chock and Bates skated their free program under Olympic judging standards. The routine was evaluated for technical elements and program components. Judges awarded the team a season-best score in the free dance segment. The result strengthened Team USA’s overall standing in the team event.
Chock and Bates Free Dance Program Details
The Chock and Bates free dance featured a choreographed sequence designed for the Olympic team format. The program included required lifts, step sequences, twizzles, and dance spins. Each element was executed within the allotted time limits. The pair maintained synchronization throughout the routine.
Scores from the free dance were converted into team points. These points were added to the cumulative score from other disciplines. Ice dance is one of four components in the team event, along with men’s singles, women’s singles, and pairs skating. Each segment plays a role in determining team placement.
Team USA Standings After Free Dance
Following the Chock and Bates free dance, Team USA remained in a strong competitive position. Earlier contributions from American skaters in other disciplines supported the overall total. The team event uses combined scores from short and free programs to rank countries.
Chock and Bates are multi-time U.S. champions and world medalists. They have represented the United States at previous Olympic Games. Their experience contributed to consistent execution under Olympic pressure.
Competition Format and Next Rounds
The figure skating team event continues with additional free skate segments. Teams must complete all assigned programs before medals are awarded. Final standings will be determined after the completion of every discipline.
The Chock and Bates free dance marked a key moment in Team USA’s campaign as the competition progressed toward medal decisions.
Source: https://www.olympics.com/en/milano-cortina-2026/news/figure-skating-team-usa-chock-bates-free-dance
