Archive · 5 Sep 2025
Finland Welcomes Same-Sex Ice Dancing After Rule Change
In Finland, two women named Emma Aalto and Millie Colling are making history as the first same-sex ice dancing team.
The Finnish skating federation changed its rules to allow this, following a similar move by Skate Canada.
Before, teams had to have a man and a woman, but now they are simply 'Skater A' and 'Skater B.' The pair hopes this encourages other countries to make the same change.
An expert notes that there's a need for education on this topic.
Ice dancing is well-suited for this because it's about rhythm and footwork, not just jumps.
Finland allows same-sex ice dancing teams to compete.
Emma Aalto and Millie Colling will be the first team.
The change was inspired by Skate Canada.
The federation now uses 'Skater A' and 'Skater B' instead of gendered roles.
The team hopes for broader international rule changes.
- Who
- Emma Aalto and Millie Colling
- What
- Will become Finland's first same-sex ice dancing team
- When
- After rule changes in the beginning of the year.
- Where
- Finland
- Why
- To boost inclusivity in figure skating
- Teams
- Emma Aalto and Millie Colling
- Location
- Finland
- Rule Change
- Elimination of gender requirements
- Inspiration
- Skate Canada