The Winter Olympics, organized in Italy, may turn into a cold war between Trump and champion athletes who openly criticize the US president's policies, especially those related to the methods adopted by the immigration police. A number of them did not hesitate to take advantage of this sporting event to direct their criticism through social networking sites and elsewhere.

Published on: 02/10/2026 - 11:07

It seems that the Winter Olympics, currently being held in Milan-Cortina, are heading towards turning into a cold war between athletes and US President Donald Trump, as a number of prominent stars did not hesitate to criticize his administration.

The anger of a number of athletes focused on the Trump administration's strictness in the immigration file, especially the methods adopted by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE). The killing of two demonstrators by federal agents in Minneapolis last month sparked a widespread wave of anger in the United States.

"Mixed feelings"

Briton Gus Kenworthy, who won silver at the 2014 Olympics in freestyle skating for the United States before returning to represent his home country, did not hide his disgust with “Ace.” “Fxxx ICE,” he wrote on his Instagram account, in a post that looked like he urinated on ice. He says the reactions ranged from support to death threats.

Kenworthy's behavior did not provoke a reaction from Trump, but the controversial president launched an attack when American freestyle skier Hunter Hess dared to express his dissatisfaction with the situation in the United States, saying, "Just because I wear the flag does not mean that I represent everything that happens in the United States."

He added that representing his country is generating "mixed feelings for him now." Trump did not hesitate to respond through his platform, “Truth Social,” once again showing his tendency to attack everyone who does not support him by saying, “Hunter Hess, a real loser, says he is not representing his country in the current Winter Olympics.”

But Hess received the support of American Snowboard star Chloe Kim, who called for more "love and compassion" in response to Trump's attack.

“Politics affects us all”

Some athletes were less severe in their positions. American star Mikaela Shiffrin, considered the most successful athlete in alpine skiing at the World Cup level, said she had "some ideas" when asked how she felt representing her country at a time when it was torn apart by deep political divisions.

The three-year-old, who is looking for a third Olympic gold in her career, cited a quote by Nelson Mandela, which was used by South African actress Charlize Theron during the opening ceremony: “Peace is not merely the absence of conflict. Peace is creating an environment in which everyone can thrive regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, social class... or any other sign of difference.”

She said that the words affected her personally, adding, "For me, this applies to the Olympics. I really hope that I represent my own values... the values ​​of inclusivity, diversity, and kindness."

As for gay American figure skating star Amber Glenn, who won team gold on Sunday, she said, “This is a difficult period for our LGBT community in general under this administration.” She criticized those who doubt the validity of what the athletes are demanding, saying, "I know that many people say that you are just an athlete. Stick to your work and do not talk about politics, but politics affects us all."

“We apologize to the world for our misconduct.”

The International Olympic Committee refused to be drawn into the controversy, especially when it was asked about Trump’s statement regarding Hess’ statements, as its spokesman Mark Adams said on Monday, “I will not add to this controversy, because I do not think that fueling any discussion of this kind is useful.”

But some American spectators at figure skating competitions saw the need to take advantage of the huge crowds to express their position.

On one side of the American flag was written, "Come on, Team USA," and on the other side, "We apologize to the world for our misbehavior. We will redeem ourselves."

Since 2021, political gestures on the podium have been banned under Article 50 of the Olympic Charter, but athletes are allowed to express their opinions in press conferences and on social media.

France 24/AFP

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