Buffalo Bills Fans Flood Winter Olympics Before USA Hockey Gold Medal Game

Bills Mafia takes over the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Buffalo Bills fans have been a prominent presence at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, with several fans spotted in the crowd proudly displaying their Bills gear and flags. This includes local restaurateur Mike Shatzel, who has brought a massive white Bills flag to cheer on Team USA hockey as they take on Canada in the gold medal game.

Why it matters

The Bills' passionate fan base is known for their unwavering support and willingness to travel far and wide to show their team pride. Their visibility at the Olympics highlights the national reach and dedication of the Bills Mafia, even in the midst of a major international sporting event.

The details

Bills fans like Shatzel have been spotted throughout the Olympics broadcast, waving their team flags and drawing attention to the Bills' presence. Shatzel, a seasoned Olympics attendee, said he brought the flag so his kids could spot him in the crowd. Other Bills fans have also been seen, including one wearing a winter hat with the Bills logo. The Bills' colors of red, white, and blue also match the American team, making the fans' presence even more fitting as Team USA takes on Canada for the gold medal in men's hockey.

  • The USA vs. Canada gold medal hockey game is scheduled for 8:10 a.m. ET on Sunday, February 23, 2026.
  • Bills fans have been spotted at various Olympic events leading up to the gold medal hockey game.

The players

Mike Shatzel

A Buffalo restaurateur and longtime Bills fan who has brought a massive white Bills flag to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy to cheer on Team USA hockey.

Tage Thompson

A Buffalo Sabres forward who is expected to play for Team USA in the Olympic gold medal hockey game against Canada.

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What they’re saying

“The Bills are everything Buffalo, and the colors match our colors, red, white and blue. And then my kids said, 'Take something so we can see you in the crowd.' So I figured I'd probably be the only person with a Bills flag.”

— Mike Shatzel, Buffalo restaurateur (WGRZ)

“Bills fan dad at the Olympics”

— Reddit user (Reddit)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.