JD Vance to Lead U.S. Presidential Delegation at Milano Cortina Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony

United States Vice President JD Vance will lead the American presidential delegation to the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, President Donald Trump announced on Saturday. The highly anticipated ceremony is scheduled for February 6, officially marking the start of the Winter Games in Italy.

Vice President Vance will be accompanied by his wife, Usha Vance, who serves as the Second Lady of the United States. Their presence underscores the importance the U.S. administration is placing on the global sporting event, which brings together athletes, officials, and spectators from around the world.

The U.S. delegation will also include several high-profile political figures and distinguished sports personalities. Among them is Secretary of State Marco Rubio, highlighting the diplomatic significance of the Olympics, as well as U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta, who will represent American interests on Italian soil during the Games.

Adding to the prominence of the delegation are multiple former Olympic champions who have left a lasting legacy in international sports. Ice hockey gold medalists Jocelyne Lamoureux-Davidson and Monique Lamoureux-Morando will attend, alongside legendary short track speed skating champion Apolo Ohno. Former figure skating Olympic gold medalist Evan Lysacek, who triumphed at the 2010 Winter Olympics, will also be part of the delegation, symbolizing the strong connection between past athletic excellence and current global competition.

The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics will be hosted across Milan and various venues in northern Italy, showcasing the region’s rich culture, modern infrastructure, and passion for winter sports. Competition is set to run through February 22, featuring events such as alpine skiing, ice hockey, figure skating, speed skating, and snowboarding.

With senior U.S. leadership and celebrated Olympic athletes in attendance, the American delegation is expected to play a visible role throughout the Games. The participation of Vice President JD Vance reflects the United States’ continued commitment to international sports diplomacy and global engagement through the Olympic movement.