With 22 teams from 17 nations and a sold-out Salzburgarena on both competition days, the 25th ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships 2026 promise to be a major sporting highlight on Austrian soil. One day before the opening ceremony, the spotlights were on Team Colibris Vienna.

Just two days remain until their World Championship debut, and anticipation is high within the Austrian national team. “We’re all incredibly excited,” says team captain Katharina Grantner. “A home World Championship is a great opportunity, and we want to perform at our very best.”
The team has worked consistently toward this moment all season. “Our shared dream of competing at Worlds has really united us,” adds co-captain Katharina Devitofranceschi. “There’s a strong team spirit, which is essential for success in Synchronized Skating.”

A first one

The senior team was established two years ago with the clear goal of competing in Salzburg 2026. After being newly formed before this season, the team has steadily improved and now feels in their best shape. “We’re ready to deliver our strongest performances of the season,” says Devitofranceschi.
As the most experienced skater at 33, she plays a key role in guiding the young team, many of whom recently competed at the ISU Synchronized Skating World Junior Championships in Gdansk. For the club, this marks a full circle moment after the junior team’s home debut in Innsbruck in 2022.
Since Monday, all teams have been training intensively in Salzburg to fine-tune their programs and adapt to the competition venue. Team Colibris Vienna arrived on Wednesday and completed their first practice session on the main ice that evening.

A wonderful stage

Organizers have transformed the Salzburgarena into a world-class ice venue. “We’re ready,” says organizing committee head Carmen Kiefer. “This weekend, a sold-out arena will provide the perfect stage for the world’s best teams.”
The event will also attract representatives from the International Olympic Committee, who will watch special Synchro-9 demonstration performances. “We want to inspire the IOC and take an important step toward Olympic inclusion,” says ISU event manager Wieland Lüders.