Topic overview
In brief
- President Donald Trump hosted a reception for Winter Olympians and Paralympians in Washington, D.C.
- The event celebrated the athletes' achievements at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Games.
- Trump's remarks focused on honoring the athletes while addressing issues in sports governance.
Summary
In Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump hosted a reception for Winter Olympians and Paralympians on a Thursday, celebrating their achievements at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Games. Nearly half of the Team USA athletes who participated in the games attended the event, along with coaches and staff. Among the notable attendees was speedskater Jordan Stolz, recognized by Trump as the most-decorated American Olympian of the 2026 Games. The event was initially planned for the outdoor stone patio but was moved indoors due to heavy rain. Trump expressed his admiration for the athletes and their dedication, while also reminiscing about his own past as an athlete. He engaged with the athletes, asking who was training for the next Olympics, and most raised their hands. Trump highlighted the upcoming 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City and the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles, emphasizing the importance of these events for American sports. The reception also included members of the U.S. women's hockey team, who received recognition from Trump. However, the absence of freestyle skier Hunter Hess, whom Trump had previously criticized, was noted. Hess had expressed mixed feelings about representing the U.S. at the games, which may have influenced his decision not to attend. Throughout the event, Trump focused on the athletes' accomplishments rather than political issues, although he did touch on topics related to women's sports and college sports governance, calling for legislative changes. The reception served as a platform for Trump to showcase his support for American athletes while also addressing broader issues in sports governance.