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Same-sex couples will be allowed to compete in British ice dance competitions next year after a <\/b>change for the 2026-27 season<\/b>, external<\/span><\/a>.<\/b><\/p>\n British Ice Skating announced the move which follows the lead of national federations in Canada and Finland.<\/p>\n Canada was the first country to allow same-sex pairs to compete in 2022.<\/p>\n British pairs will not be able to compete internationally, however, as International Skating Union (ISU) rules stipulate pair and dance teams must comprise one man and one woman.<\/p>\n “This change reflects our ongoing commitment to making ice skating inclusive and accessible for all,” British Ice Skating said.<\/p>\n Retired female Olympic ice dance champions Madison Hubbell of the United States and Gabriella Papadakis of France have skated together in exhibitions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n