Team USA Celebrates Historic Gold Medal Victory with FBI Director Kash Patel
Team USA made history by winning the gold medal in men’s hockey at the 2026 Milan Cortina Games, marking a significant achievement for American sports. Following the thrilling 2-1 overtime triumph against Canada, the team celebrated in their locker room with a special guest: FBI Director Kash Patel.
A Celebratory Atmosphere in the Locker Room
Patel joined the jubilant Team USA players in their locker room, where he shared a celebratory beer and joining in the festivities. A video shared on social media captured Patel spraying beer as players enthusiastically sang "Courtesy of the USA," a song by country star Toby Keith. During the celebration, Team USA forward Matthew Tkachuk honored Patel by placing a gold medal around his neck.
Remarks from Kash Patel
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Patel expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating, “For the very concerned media – yes, I love America and was extremely humbled when my friends, the newly minted Gold Medal winners on Team USA, invited me into the locker room to celebrate this historic moment with the boys—Greatest country on earth and greatest sport on earth.”
Patel emphasized the unity and dedication displayed by Team USA, posting, “Unity, Sacrifice, Attitude—what it takes to be the best in the world. These men live and breathe it. Now Team USA are gold medal champions, legends standing on the shoulders of giants.”
Media Backlash and Clarifications
Despite enjoying the spotlight, Patel faced criticism regarding his presence at the games. Ben Williamson, assistant director of public affairs for the FBI, clarified on February 19 that Patel’s trip to Italy had been planned months in advance and was tied to official meetings with Italian law enforcement and security personnel. Williamson also noted that any personal expenses incurred during the trip would be reimbursed.
A Historic Victory
This gold medal marks significant progress for American hockey, being the nation’s first Olympic victory in men’s hockey since the "Miracle on Ice" in Lake Placid in 1980 and the third overall. The magnitude of this win resonated across the country, inspiring many who tuned in to watch the thrilling match.
Presidential Congratulations
The celebrations didn’t end in the locker room. A video posted by the White House showed Patel on a call with President Donald Trump, who congratulated the team on their monumental win. "He just spoke to the group expressing how proud he was of the group and congratulating everybody on the win," said head coach Mike Sullivan. He further noted, “This game in a lot of ways was an inspiration to our country.”
Viewing Party Excitement
Numerous watch parties took place across the United States, with people eager to support Team USA. Sullivan remarked on the extensive viewership of the game, stating, "I can’t tell you how many texts I’ve received over the last day or so about watch parties at 8 in the morning."
Conclusion
Team USA’s gold medal win at the 2026 Milan Cortina Games not only represents an athletic achievement but also serves as a moment of national pride. With celebratory moments shared among teammates and even with high-profile figures like Kash Patel and President Trump, this victory is set to inspire future generations of athletes.
For more details on the 2026 Milan Cortina Games, visit the official Olympic website.
By embracing this sense of unity and camaraderie, Team USA has certainly made their mark in Olympic history.
