FBI Director Celebrates Olympic Hockey Win Amid Bureau Crises

Kash Patel was in Italy for security consultations when he joined the U.S. hockey team's locker room celebration.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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FBI Director Kash Patel was in Milan, Italy for security consultations related to the Olympics when he took time to celebrate the U.S. hockey team's gold medal win over Canada. This came as the FBI was dealing with several high-profile crises back home, including an intrusion and shooting at Mar-a-Lago, the former president's residence in Florida.

Why it matters

Patel's trip and celebration have raised questions about his priorities and the appropriate use of government resources, as the FBI director is facing criticism for blurring the lines between personal and professional activities. The bureau is also grappling with significant national security challenges that require its full attention.

The details

While in Italy, Patel attended six meetings, two of which were classified briefings. He was also spotted in the U.S. hockey team's locker room, celebrating their gold medal win over Canada. Patel, a devoted hockey fan, was seen giving a 'shaka' sign and congratulating the players, including center Dylan Larkin, while wearing a white jersey.

  • On Sunday, the Secret Service reported a would-be intruder was killed at Mar-a-Lago.
  • Earlier, Patel sat in a box watching the U.S. hockey team's 2-1 overtime win against Canada.

The players

Kash Patel

The current director of the FBI, who has faced criticism for blurring the lines between personal and professional activities.

Dylan Larkin

The center for the U.S. Olympic hockey team, who won the gold medal.

Donald Trump

The former president, whose Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida was the site of an intrusion and shooting incident.

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What they’re saying

“Congratulations, Team USA!”

— Kash Patel, FBI Director

What’s next

The FBI is expected to play a central role in the investigation of the Mar-a-Lago incident.

The takeaway

Patel's trip to Italy and celebration of the U.S. hockey team's victory have raised concerns about his priorities and the appropriate use of government resources, especially as the FBI faces significant national security challenges that require its full attention.