The 2026 Winter Olympics began with a startling mix of cheers and jeers as the world’s focus shifted from athletic excellence to political friction.

While the massive U.S. athlete delegation received a thunderous welcome at the San Siro stadium, Vice President JD Vance faced a vocal, chilly reception from the international crowd.

The moment occurred during the Parade of Nations when the stadium’s giant screens panned to the presidential suite. As the Vice President and Second Lady, Usha Vance waved small American flags, loud boos and whistling erupted, cutting through the festive music.

A commentator on Canada’s CBC broadcast captured the awkward transition, noting, “There is the vice-president JD Vance and his wife Usha – oops, those are not uh those are a lot of boos for him.”

The backlash follows intense local protests in Milan regarding the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel providing security support. Longtime sports columnist Christine Brennan remarked on the rarity of the moment, stating:

“It’s very rare to hear boos at an Olympic opening ceremony. In my 22 Olympics, it probably has happened, but I sure don’t remember it.”

Despite the friction, Vance remained focused on the athletes. Earlier in the week, he told Team USA that the Games are “one of the few things that unites the entire country,” adding that “the whole country – Democrat, Republican, independent – we’re all rooting for you.”