European Figure Skating Championships

Older than the World Championships

The first European Championships in figure skating were held in Hamburg in 1891, even before the International Skating Union existed. That makes them older than the World Championships. At first only men competed; women and pairs were added in the 1930s, and ice dance in 1954.

Date and format

The Europeans usually take place in January, between the Grand Prix in autumn and the Worlds in March. Titles are awarded in women's and men's singles, pair skating and ice dance. The format matches the Worlds: short program and free skate, with only the best after the first segment advancing.

Qualification

Skaters from European ISU member federations are eligible. As at the Worlds, the number of entries depends on the previous year's results, and athletes must have achieved minimum scores.

Significance

Because the competition from North America and Asia is absent, European skaters have better medal chances at the Europeans than at the Worlds. For many, the European title is a career highlight. In Olympic years, the Europeans serve as the last test before the Games. For young skaters, they are often the first major senior competition.

Successes from the German-speaking region

Germany, Austria and Switzerland have a long tradition at the Europeans. Katarina Witt won six consecutive European titles. Austrian skaters shaped the first decades, and Switzerland's Denise Biellmann became European champion in 1981. In pair skating, Aliona Savchenko and Robin Szolkowy were successful several times.

Venues

The Europeans are held in a different European country every year. Germany has hosted several times. For fans from the German-speaking region, the Europeans are often easier to reach than the Worlds, which frequently take place in North America or Asia.

Four Continents Championships

For skaters outside Europe, the Four Continents Championships have been held since 1999. They take place at roughly the same time and are the Europeans' counterpart for the Americas, Asia, Africa and Oceania.

Schedule of a European Championships

A European Championships usually lasts five days. The short programs and rhythm dances are skated on the first days, followed by the free skates. The last day features an exhibition gala, in which the medallists perform without scoring. For spectators, the gala is often the most atmospheric part, because skaters show elements that are not allowed or unusual in competition. Tickets are usually available as day passes or packages for the whole week.