Political Protests at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics Echo Past Demonstrations
The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games have become a backdrop for athlete protests, echoing historical demonstrations of social and political activism at the Olympics. Several Team USA members, including skier Mikaela Shiffrin, snowboarder Chloe Kim, and freestyle skiers Hunter Hess and Chris Lillas, have expressed discomfort representing the United States amid ongoing political issues.
Athlete Concerns and Political Criticism
Hunter Hess publicly voiced his mixed emotions about representing the U.S., stating that wearing the flag doesn’t necessarily signify he supports all current U.S. Policies. These comments drew a swift response from former President Donald Trump, who criticized Hess on his Truth Social platform, questioning his patriotism.
Vice President JD Vance, attending the Games, defended the athletes’ right to participate but suggested they should anticipate “some pushback” for criticizing the country even as representing it internationally. Vance was reportedly booed during the opening ceremonies.
Historical Parallels: The 1968 Mexico City Protest
The current protests draw parallels to the iconic demonstration by Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. The sprinters raised black-gloved fists during the medal ceremony to protest racial injustice in America. This act, captured in a defining image of the 20th century, sparked international debate and condemnation from Olympic officials.
“Fists of Freedom” Documentary and Perspectives
The HBO Max documentary “Fists of Freedom: The Story of the ’68 Summer Games” chronicles the events surrounding Smith and Carlos’ protest and its aftermath. George Roy, the film’s producer and director, noted similarities between the 1968 protest and the current situation, highlighting the athletes’ desire to be proud of their country. However, Roy too pointed out key differences, noting that Smith and Carlos’ protest was directly linked to their personal experiences with discrimination.
In an interview featured in the documentary, Tommie Smith clarified the intent behind his raised fist, describing it as a prayer for solidarity and a cry for freedom for those facing injustice.
Contemporary reactions to Smith and Carlos’ protest were sharply divided. Bob Paul, a press secretary for the United States Olympic Committee in 1968, deemed their actions inappropriate, emphasizing the need for “due order and decorum.” Veteran sportscaster Brent Musburger characterized the gesture as a “juvenile” display. Avery Brundage, then the Olympic committee head, ordered their expulsion from the Games.
Lasting Impact and Current Olympic Performances
Despite the controversy, the salute by Smith and Carlos is widely recognized as a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
As of February 16, 2026, Mikaela Shiffrin has not yet medaled at the Milan Cortina Games. She finished fourth in the team combined event on February 10th, and 11th in the giant slalom on February 15th. She is scheduled to compete in the slalom event.