What should not happen during the last 90-degree pivot in a whip intersection?

During the last 90-degree pivot in a whip intersection, maintaining the distance between the end skaters is crucial for the overall formation and execution of the maneuver. It ensures that the skaters remain oriented correctly within the formation, preserving the integrity of the synchronicity and alignment required in synchronized skating.

This distance helps in creating an effective visual presentation and maintains the flow of the movement. If the end skaters were to increase their distance from each other or lose their hold, it could disrupt the synchronization of the entire group and affect the look and effectiveness of the intersection. Maintaining consistent spacing is essential for both safety and aesthetics, allowing all skaters, especially the lead skaters, to operate within a well-defined axis without compromising their balance or form.

In the context of the other options, increasing the distance between end skaters or losing their hold would directly negate the goal of cohesion in the performance, while having the lead skaters remain along the axis is a necessary component of executing the pivot correctly. Therefore, the necessity of maintaining a stable distance between end skaters stands out as vital during this moment in the routine.