Lausanne, Switzerland

As a result of the recent United States’ travel ban of 26 European countries and the state of New York’s restrictions on gatherings over concerns of the spread of the COVID-19 virus, U.S. Figure Skating and the International Skating Union (ISU) are unable to organize the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships® 2020. The event was scheduled to take place April 3-4, 2020, in Lake Placid, New York, United States.  

The ISU and U.S. Figure Skating have closely monitored the World Health Organization (WHO) and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the spread of the virus and fully respect the measures implemented by the authorities despite their implications on the Event. Like the authorities, the ISU and U.S. Figure Skating remain committed to the health and safety of the athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and spectators.

The ISU thanks U.S. Figure Skating and all the partners involved in the preparation of the Event and for their cooperation during the critical monitoring phase leading up to this decision.

Many stakeholders have been affected by the cancellation of the World Synchronized Championships; the ISU and U.S. Figure Skating will be communicating directly with each group in the coming days.

Any fan who has purchased tickets will receive a refund. In the coming days, U.S. Figure Skating will work with each group impacted by this cancelation, including contacting each “Group Ticket Contact” regarding all-event ticket refunds purchased via the event website. Information will be posted on www.WorldSynchro2020.com.

Considering the current uncertain developments surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic, a rescheduling and/or relocation of the above-mentioned Championships within the current season, even if the season would be extended by several weeks after its normal end in early April, cannot be reasonably considered. During the coming weeks, the ISU will evaluate in cooperation with all stakeholders whether the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships 2020 could possibly be held later in the year, but in any case not before October 2020. Before taking a final decision, the ISU will remain in close contact with U.S. Figure Skating and ISU Members.

The ISU regrets that the most important Synchronized Skating Event of the season cannot be held as planned but the ISU also understands that the safety and wellbeing of all participants and the community take precedence and is sure that ISU Members, Skaters and fans will understand this decision.

The ISU is overwhelmed by the tragic developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic and feels with those who have been affected and threatened by this situation and wishes success and pays tribute to all those fighting to overcome the crisis, with the expectation and hope that the situation will be restored to normal as quickly as possible. The ISU expresses condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones due to this contagious disease.