Lillian Kerbake

Two-time Olympian Caitlin Weaver said open gender ice dance might broaden the sport's appeal and fix one of its deepest structural problems.

Qualified women greatly outnumber qualified men.

This can lead to young athletes relocating internationally and a power imbalance between partners.

If you had more availability, perhaps you could find your perfect partner without having to represent Azerbaijan.

Finland, Canada, and the United Kingdom have modified their rules to allow for same-sex couples at domestic competitions.

Weaver says getting the rule change internationally requires approval by conservative member countries who see two women or two men dancing together as socially progressive.

For NPR News, I'm Lillian Kerbake.