The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has publicly expressed its strong hope that there will be no instances of mockery or disrespect directed towards senior US officials and athletes during the highly anticipated opening ceremony of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, scheduled to take place in Italy. The IOC has specifically urged spectators attending the prestigious event to demonstrate universal respect towards all athletes participating from around the globe, emphasizing the importance of fostering an environment free from discrimination.
Among the notable attendees expected at the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony are US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The event is set to be hosted at the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan. The presence of these high-ranking US officials has reportedly sparked concern among event organizers, who anticipate that some attendees might voice disapproval or mock the American contingent.
A significant underlying reason for potential public resentment from Italian spectators towards the US stems from the anticipated presence of officials from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). ICE, as an agency, gained particular prominence and notoriety for its enforcement actions under former US President Donald Trump, specifically for its efforts to apprehend and deport undocumented immigrants residing in the United States.
The prospect of ICE agents being present in Italy, ostensibly to provide security services for US athletes, has already caused considerable discontent among many Italian citizens. This dissatisfaction has previously led to public gatherings and protests against perceived American actions.
Despite these mounting concerns, Kirsty Coventry, the President of the IOC, remains optimistic that such incidents of mockery aimed at US athletes will not materialize during the opening ceremony on February 6, 2026.
Responding to journalists’ inquiries regarding these anxieties and the potential for officials and athletes to face ridicule, President Coventry stated, “I truly hope that at the Winter Olympics opening ceremony, people of all ages will recognize this as a very special opportunity to show mutual respect. When we arrive at the Olympic Village, it’s a truly memorable experience. We see athletes from every country walking together, engaging in conversation without questioning each other’s origins. They simply share respect and enjoy their time together there.”
The opening ceremony for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is scheduled for February 6, 2026. Vice President JD Vance is expected to attend alongside his wife, Usha Vance, who holds the position of Second Lady of the United States. The wider American delegation will also include Secretary Rubio, US Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta, and several former US Olympic medalists, highlighting the significance of their presence at the global sporting event.
