The International Olympic Committee (IOC) responded to the booing of US Vice President JD Vance at the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony, emphasizing the importance of fair play and highlighting the positive relationship with the American administration.
Vance, who led the US delegation, faced boos from the crowd as the US team entered the stadium in San Siro, Italy. IOC spokesperson Mark Adams addressed the incident during a press conference, expressing satisfaction with the engagement of the US administration in the Games and looking forward to the upcoming Games in Los Angeles.
Emphasizing the organization’s focus on sports, Adams praised the audience for cheering the US team and stressed the significance of fair play at sporting events. Andrea Varnier, chief executive of Milano-Cortina 2026, refrained from commenting on Italian perceptions of the US administration and instead highlighted the positive reception of the US team by the crowd.
The IOC also called for respectful behavior from spectators, especially concerning the booing directed at Israeli athletes. Adams emphasized the importance of supporting athletes regardless of their background or country of origin and encouraged a sportsman-like atmosphere at the Games.
Vance’s visit to Milan included meetings with American competitors and discussions with IOC president Kirsty Coventry, which were described as positive and enthusiastic by Adams. The Winter Olympic Games in Milano Cortina 2026 will run from February 6-22, with fans able to enjoy over 850 hours of live action on discovery+ via Prime Video.
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