ESPN Veteran Criticizes VP Vance at Olympic Hockey Match

Sports commentator Sarah Spain says she felt "ill" sitting near Vice President JD Vance at a U.S. women's hockey game in Milan.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Sports commentator Sarah Spain, known for her work at ESPN, recounted a negative experience sitting near Vice President JD Vance at a U.S. women's hockey match during the Winter Olympics in Milan. Spain said she felt "ill" and described Vance as exuding "demon energy", criticizing his political views and actions.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing political tensions and divisions that have spilled over into the sports world, with athletes and commentators increasingly willing to voice their political views and criticisms of government officials, even at major sporting events.

The details

On a recent episode of her "Good Game" podcast, Spain said she sat near Vance at the U.S. women's hockey match and had a very negative reaction to his presence. She described feeling "ill" and like she was "looking at a demon" when she saw Vance, who has backed the Trump administration's hardline immigration policies. Spain was also critical of Vance telling athletes "you're not there to pop off about politics" at the Games.

  • The incident occurred during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy.

The players

Sarah Spain

A veteran sports commentator who has worked at ESPN for over 15 years, known for her appearances on shows like "Around the Horn".

JD Vance

The current Vice President of the United States, who has faced criticism for his support of the Trump administration's hardline immigration policies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When I see JD Vance's eyeliner face, I literally feel ill... I feel like I just looked at a demon, like the devil, and I don't even believe in that.”

— Sarah Spain, Sports Commentator (Good Game Podcast)

The takeaway

This incident underscores the growing politicization of major sporting events, as well as the willingness of prominent figures in the sports world to vocally criticize government officials and their policies, even in high-profile settings like the Olympics.