The IOC has responded to the booing of US vice-president JD Vance at the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony, emphasizing “fair play” and praising its ties with the American government.
Vance, leading the US delegation, experienced a shift from cheers to boos as the team entered the San Siro stadium in Italy, creating an awkward moment.
During a press conference, IOC spokesperson Mark Adams expressed satisfaction with the US administration’s engagement with the Games and the audience’s positive reception of the US team. He highlighted the importance of fair play in sporting events and welcomed the strong relationship with the administration.
Andrea Varnier, CEO of Milano-Cortina 2026, refrained from commenting on Italian perceptions of the US administration, focusing on the enthusiastic cheering for the US team’s entrance.
The IOC stressed the need for respectful behavior from spectators, especially in response to the booing of Israeli athletes. Adams emphasized the importance of supporting athletes regardless of their nationality or political affiliations.
Vance arrived in Milan ahead of the Games, meeting with American athletes and engaging with IOC president Kirsty Coventry before the Opening Ceremony. Adams described the meeting as successful, highlighting the positive chemistry and enthusiasm shown by the US administration for the Games.
The Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina 2026 will run until February 22, offering fans over 850 hours of live action on discovery+ via Prime Video. The £3.99 discovery+ Entertainment subscription will grant access to TNT Sports 2 for continuous Olympic coverage.
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