The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has addressed the incident involving US vice-president JD Vance being booed during the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony. The IOC emphasized the importance of fair play and highlighted the positive relationship with the American administration.

Vance, leading the US delegation, faced boos from the crowd as the US team entered the San Siro stadium in Italy. In response to questions during a press conference, IOC spokesperson Mark Adams expressed satisfaction with the US administration’s support for the Games, especially with the upcoming Games in Los Angeles.

The IOC stressed the significance of fair play in sporting events and praised the audience for cheering the US team. Andrea Varnier, chief executive of Milano-Cortina 2026, avoided commenting on Italian perceptions of the US administration, focusing on the positive reception the US team received.

Additionally, the IOC urged respectful behavior from spectators and emphasized supporting athletes regardless of their nationality. Adams reiterated the Olympic Movement’s principle of separating athletes from political issues and promoting sportsmanship.

Vance arrived in Milan before the Opening Ceremony to meet American athletes and attend the US women’s ice hockey match. He also had discussions with IOC president Kirsty Coventry, which were described as productive and enthusiastic.

The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games will run from February 6 to 22, offering over 850 hours of live action on discovery+ via Prime Video. Fans can access 24/7 Olympic coverage on TNT Sports 2 with a £3.99 discovery+ Entertainment subscription throughout the games.