Federations Rename Athlete Hospitality Space Amid Global Backlash On February 3, 2026, the U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey and U.S. Speedskating bodies announced the venue’s new name, “Winter House,” replacing the original “Ice House” after anti‑ICE demonstrations erupted in both Italy and the United States [1]. The hospitality house, located inside a Milan hotel, was created to give athletes, families and partners a distraction‑free environment during the Games [1]. Figure skater Amber Glenn called the change “wise,” noting the word “ice” felt painful given recent events [1].

Milan Streets Fill With Hundreds Opposing ICE Following Minneapolis Shootings On February 2, 2026, protesters gathered near the U.S. Embassy in Milan, brandishing “No ICE” signs that incorporated the Winter Olympics logo [2]. The demonstrations were fueled by the fatal shootings of poet Renée Good on January 7 and intensive‑care nurse Alex Pretti on January 24 in Minneapolis, incidents that sparked nationwide outrage [2]. Italian lawmakers, including Riccardo Magi and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, publicly condemned the presence of U.S. immigration agents, while Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala labeled ICE a “militia that kills” [2].

Italian Officials and DHS Clarify Security Roles as Protests Intensify The Department of Homeland Security clarified that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents—not ICE—will operate in Milan, working from a control room at the U.S. Consulate to “vet and mitigate risks” under Italian authority [2]. Despite the clarification, Italian politicians continued to denounce the U.S. immigration presence, accusing Rome’s right‑wing government of fearing President Trump’s reaction [2]. A federal judge also denied Minnesota’s request to halt the deployment of thousands of immigration officials under “Operation Metro Surge,” keeping the controversy alive [2].

IOC Leader Calls ICE Focus a Distraction While Media Highlights New Venue International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry described the ICE controversy as a “sad” distraction from the Games, emphasizing the need to keep attention on sport [2]. NBC announced plans to feature the newly renamed Winter House in its coverage, offering viewers behind‑the‑scenes looks at medal celebrations and athlete meet‑and‑greets [1]. The opening ceremony will include U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio among dignitaries, underscoring the Games’ high‑profile political backdrop [2].