The Olympics and Politics Are More Intertwined Than Ever. Maybe That’s a Good Thing

The Olympics often provide a moment of unity and celebration during times of geopolitical uncertainty. But blind nationalism didn’t win at the 2026 Winter Games.

In retrospect, the boos proved prescient.

During the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano Cortina, the crowd at San Siro stadium cheered when the US team entered during the parade of nations. When the camera cut to Vice President JD Vance and second lady Usha Vance, the jeers began. A few days prior, protesters had gathered in Milan following reports that US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents would be coming to the Italian city for the Games. Coupled with the Vances’ chilly reception, it foretold a Winter Olympics more fraught than any in recent memory.

Going into the Winter Games, several US athletes expressed discomfort at representing a country currently in turmoil over ICE’s actions in Minnesota and the ...