Vance, in Milan, Says the Olympics Are ‘One of the Few Things’ That Unite Americans

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, leading the U.S. delegation at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, emphasized that the Games are one of the rare events that bring Americans together across political divides, urging unity and national pride as athletes compete on the world stage.

By Maria Rodriguez – Senior Staff Writer

Last Updated: Feb. 3, 2026

Vance Arrives in Milan for the Winter Games

Vice President J.D. Vance arrived in Milan, Italy, Thursday with his family to lead the United States’ delegation at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. Speaking with U.S. athletes ahead of the competition, Vance positioned the Olympic Games as a rare unifying force for Americans, noting that 'the whole country — Democrat, Republican, independent — we’re all rooting for you and we’re cheering for you.' His remarks came as the U.S. Olympic team prepared for preliminary competitions, including a U.S. women’s hockey game. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Highlighting Unity Amid Domestic Division

In a period marked by intense domestic political divisions and debates over national identity, Vance underscored the symbolic value of the Olympics in fostering a sense of shared purpose. He highlighted how major sporting events often transcend political allegiances, bringing Americans together as they rally behind their athletes and celebrate national achievements on the global stage. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Diplomacy and Sports Combined

Vance’s Milan trip combines sporting engagement with diplomatic work. Beyond attending Olympic competitions and opening ceremonies, he is set to travel to Armenia and Azerbaijan afterward to support implementation of a U.S.‑brokered peace agreement aimed at ending decades‑long conflict between the two countries. His itinerary reflects a blend of soft‑power diplomacy and national representation abroad. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Leading the U.S. Delegation at the Opening Ceremony

At Friday’s opening ceremony at San Siro Stadium, Vance will lead a U.S. delegation that includes his wife, second lady Usha Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the U.S. Ambassador to Italy. Their presence underscores the importance the United States places on the Olympic movement and its value as an opportunity for international engagement and cultural exchange. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Olympic Spirit and Global Unity

Vance’s message echoes a broader theme of the Olympic spirit: that sport can bring together people from around the world and foster peaceful exchange. As Milan hosts the Winter Games, event organizers and international officials alike hope the competitions will serve as a reminder of unity and respect among nations and cultures, even amid geopolitical tensions. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}