Trump and the 2026 Winter Olympics Closing Ceremony: Absence, Controversy, and a Victory Call
MILAN, 23 February 2026 — As the curtain fell on the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics last night, the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump remained the most debated topic off the ice. Despite intense speculation throughout the final week of the Games regarding a high-profile appearance at the closing ceremony in Verona, the 47th President ultimately opted to remain in the United States, marking the end of a turbulent Olympic cycle defined by political friction between the White House and American athletes.
The “Will He, Won’t He?” Saga Ends
For much of last week, international media outlets and Italian organisers were on high alert. Reports suggested that Donald Trump was planning a “mammoth” logistical operation to attend both the men’s ice hockey final and the closing ceremony at the Arena di Verona. Following Vice President J.D. Vance’s earlier visit to Italy, expectations for a presidential appearance were high.
However, as of 21 February, sources confirmed that the President had decided against the trip. While no official reason was provided for the cancellation, analysts point to a combination of domestic legislative hurdles—including recent judicial pushback against his tariff decrees—and the frosty reception he has received from members of Team USA.
Team USA’s Gold and the “X” Factor
While Trump was physically absent from the stands in Milan, he was quick to claim a digital victory. Following the United States’ dramatic victory over Canada in the men’s ice hockey final on Sunday, 22 February, the President took to his platform, X (formerly Twitter).
The Hockey Victory Post
Trump shared a provocative image of himself holding a hockey stick, originally taken during a Stanley Cup reception, accompanied by the caption: “Wow. Donald J. Trump.” The post was widely interpreted as a “jab” at Canada, following a week of heightened trade tensions after Trump signed a decree for a new 10 per cent global tariff on all imports.
A Games Defined by Political Friction
The 2026 Winter Games will be remembered as much for the “Trump Shadow” as for the sporting achievements. Throughout the fortnight, several high-profile American athletes used the Olympic stage to voice their opposition to the administration’s policies.
- Jessica Diggins: The cross-country skiing star was vocal in her criticism of the administration’s immigration policies, stating that political messages are no longer “isolated cases” in the Olympic village.
- The “Loser” Rhetoric: In response to criticism from athletes, Trump utilised social media and interviews to label his detractors within Team USA as “real losers,” further deepening the divide between the executive branch and the nation’s top Olympians.
- MAGA Mobilisation: On social media, the “Maga” movement remained highly active, using the Olympic flame as a symbol for nationalistic fervour, often clashing with fans who argued that the Games should remain neutral.
Looking Ahead: LA28 and the World Cup
Despite the friction in Italy, Donald Trump is set to remain a central figure in the sporting world. As the 47th President, he is positioned to be the face of the United States during two of the world’s largest upcoming sporting events:
| Event | Year | Location |
|---|---|---|
| FIFA World Cup (XXL Edition) | 2026 | USA, Canada, Mexico |
| Summer Olympic Games (LA28) | 2028 | Los Angeles, USA |
Experts suggest that Trump views these events as vital components of his “legacy,” providing a global stage for “Soft Power” projection. However, the reception he might receive at the LA28 opening ceremony in California remains a point of intense public debate, with many questioning if his “ego” can handle the potentially mixed reaction from a home crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Did Donald Trump attend the 2026 Winter Olympics closing ceremony?
No. Despite reports earlier in the week suggesting a planned visit, President Trump did not travel to Italy for the closing ceremony in Verona on 22 February 2026.
Which athletes criticised Trump during the 2026 Games?
Several athletes, most notably cross-country skier Jessica Diggins, publicly criticised the President’s immigration and domestic policies during the event.
How did Trump react to the US Ice Hockey gold medal?
Trump celebrated the victory over Canada on social media, posting a celebratory image of himself with a hockey stick, which was seen by many as a political swipe at America’s northern neighbour amidst ongoing tariff disputes.
Who represented the US government in Italy?
Vice President J.D. Vance visited the Games in Italy earlier in the schedule, representing the administration before the President’s eventual decision to stay in Washington.