Name of venue for athletes at Milan-Cortina Olympics changed from 'Ice House' to 'Winter House': 'It is regrettable that the term cannot be accepted due to the actions of some individuals'
ICE agents outside a home in Circle Pines, Minnesota on January 28, 2026 PHOTO: SCOTT OLSON / Getty images / Profimedia
US Olympic officials have changed the name of an athlete space at the Milan-Cortina Games from the “Ice House” to the “Winter House” after protests in Minneapolis that resulted in the fatal shooting of two US citizens by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, according to Reuters.
The venue, promoted by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) as a “space dedicated to athletes”, is a boutique hotel in the heart of Milan where skaters, hockey players, speed athletes and their families can meet and relax during the Games.
“Our hospitality concept was envisioned as a private, distraction-free space where athletes, their families and friends can come together to celebrate the unique Winter Games experience,” US Figure Skating, USA Hockey and US Speedskating said in a joint statement. “This name reflects our vision and connects to both the season and the event.”
According to the USOPC, the Winter House will host a number of activities, including meetings with Olympic champions and legends, medal ceremonies, watch parties and sponsor events. The venue will not be open to the public, but will be featured on NBC's broadcasts of the Games.
Under a sweeping federal immigration crackdown, President Donald Trump has deployed about 3,000 officers to the Minneapolis area, five times the number of the city's police force, who patrol the streets in tactical gear. Two American citizens were shot.
“I think it's a wise decision,” U.S. figure skater Amber Glenn told reporters after Monday's practice in Milan. “It is unfortunate that the term ICE cannot be accepted because of what is happening and the implications of the actions of some individuals. In my country, it is very upsetting and difficult to watch. I cannot imagine how those directly affected feel. So I think it is wise to change even something as small as a name if it can make someone feel more comfortable.”
ICE causes a political scandal in Italy
The news about sending ICE agents caused a negative reaction in Italy. The mayor of Milan, Giuseppe Sala, declared that they are not welcome. The Minister of the Interior, Matteo Piantedosi, was called to the Parliament to give explanations about this referral.
The ICE agents who will be deployed to Milan are not part of the same unit as the immigration agents who carry out enforcement actions in Minnesota and other US cities.
Homeland Security Investigations, an ICE unit that deals with cross-border crimes, frequently sends officers to international events, such as the Olympics, to provide security. The arm of ICE on the front lines of US immigration enforcement is known as Enforcement and Removal Operations, and there is no indication that its officers are being sent to Italy.
The Olympic Games begin on February 6 with an opening ceremony attended by US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Meloni government clarifies role of US ICE agents at Milan Cortina Olympics amid public anger in Italy
