The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has responded to the negative reception of US vice-president JD Vance at the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony, emphasizing the importance of fair play and expressing appreciation for the collaboration with the American administration.
Vance, who led the US delegation, faced a shift from cheers to boos as the US team entered the San Siro stadium in Italy, capturing an awkward moment during the event.
When questioned about the incident, IOC spokesperson Mark Adams highlighted the upcoming Games in Los Angeles and the positive engagement of the US administration with the Olympic Games. Adams praised the audience’s enthusiastic support for the US team and emphasized the significance of fair play in sports events.
Regarding the perception of the US administration by Italians, Andrea Varnier, chief executive of Milano-Cortina 2026, focused on the overwhelming cheers for the US team upon their entrance, avoiding further commentary on Italian views.
The IOC also stressed the importance of respectful behavior from spectators, addressing the booing directed at Israeli athletes. Adams emphasized the need for sportsmanlike conduct towards all athletes, regardless of their background or nationality.
Vance arrived in Milan ahead of the Games, interacting with American athletes and attending the US women’s ice hockey match against Czechia. He also engaged in discussions with IOC president Kirsty Coventry prior to the Opening Ceremony.
Adams shared positive feedback on Vance’s meeting with Coventry, highlighting their productive discussion and the administration’s enthusiasm for the Games. The Winter Olympic Games in Milano Cortina 2026 are scheduled from February 6-22, offering fans over 850 hours of live action on discovery+ via Prime Video.
Throughout the event, the £3.99 discovery+ Entertainment subscription provides access to TNT Sports 2 for continuous Olympic coverage.