U.S. Vice President JD Vance has urged American athletes at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics to avoid “popping off about politics.” His comments came after he and his wife were booed when they appeared on stadium screens during the opening ceremony in Milan.

The reaction occurred as Team USA entered the stadium Friday night. While the American contingent drew cheers, the atmosphere shifted when the broadcast cut to the Vances, with audible jeers picked up on international feeds.

Vance’s remarks followed statements from several Team USA athletes who spoke about feeling conflicted representing their country amid the political climate at home. He advised athletes to focus on their sport rather than politics.

“You’re there to play a sport and represent your country,” Vance said. “You’re not there to pop off about politics.” He added that athletes should try to bring the country together by representing both Democrats and Republicans.

The vice president also addressed the booing he experienced, suggesting such reactions might be expected in a foreign country. President Donald Trump commented that Vance “doesn’t get booed in this country.”

The opening ceremony backdrop included protests in Milan over U.S. immigration policies and wider European anger about American domestic policy. Hundreds of protesters rallied in the city ahead of the ceremony.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry had expressed hope the ceremony wouldn’t be “marred by jeers against Americans.” The episode highlights ongoing tension between athletic competition, political expression, and diplomatic representation at international sporting events.