U.S. Olympic Officials Rename ‘Ice House’ Amid Protests Over Federal Agents at Winter Games
MILAN, Italy — In a move reflecting growing sensitivities around federal law enforcement involvement at international events, U.S. Olympic officials announced on February 2, 2026, that they have renamed the American athletes’ hospitality venue from the “Ice House” to the “Winter House.” The change comes amid protests in Italy and heightened scrutiny over the role of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in security operations at the 2026 Winter Olympics, as well as broader criticism of ICE’s domestic activities.
The hospitality space, designed as a private retreat for American figure skaters, speedskaters, ice hockey players, their families, and friends, serves as a venue for meet-and-greets, medal celebrations, watch parties, and other events throughout the Games. It is also featured prominently during NBC’s broadcast coverage, offering viewers a glimpse into Team USA’s communal spirit.
U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey, and U.S. Speedskating issued a joint statement emphasizing the intent behind the name change. “Our hospitality concept was designed to be a private space free of distractions where athletes, their families, and friends can come together to celebrate the unique experience of the Winter Games,” the organizations said. “This name captures that vision and connects to the season and the event.”
The original name, “Ice House,” was perceived by some as inadvertently evoking associations with ICE, especially given the agency’s visible presence in security roles at the Games. This association sparked protests in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, where the Olympics are being held, mirroring similar demonstrations in the United States that have called for reforms or abolition of ICE.
These protests are part of a broader national conversation about immigration enforcement policies and the role of federal agencies in community safety. The Department of Homeland Security, under which ICE operates, has faced increasing public scrutiny and calls for transparency regarding its enforcement tactics.
While the U.S. Olympic Committee has not detailed the specific security arrangements, the presence of federal agents at the Games aligns with standard practices to ensure the safety of athletes and attendees. However, the optics of ICE’s involvement have proven contentious, prompting the hospitality space’s rebranding to avoid unintended political connotations.
Observers note that the name change reflects a sensitivity to the intersection of sports, politics, and public sentiment. The hospitality venue remains a key part of Team USA’s efforts to foster camaraderie and celebrate athletic achievements in a welcoming environment.
For more information on the role of federal agencies in Olympic security, visit the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee website. Updates on immigration enforcement policies can be found through the Department of Homeland Security and the ICE official site.
As the Winter Games continue, organizers and athletes alike hope the focus remains on competition and unity rather than controversy. The renaming of the “Winter House” is a small but telling adjustment in the evolving narrative surrounding this global sporting event.
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