Full Breakdown
Gus Kenworthy Faces Death Threats Amid Olympic Competition
2/20/2026, 10:20:15 PM
Central Event: Death Threats Following Controversial Post
Gus Kenworthy, a freestyle skier representing Team GB, has received death threats after posting a graphic message on Instagram criticizing the United States' Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) organization. This incident occurred just a week before he was set to compete in the Winter Olympics in Italy. Kenworthy's post was a response to the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, who were killed by ICE agents in Minnesota, which sparked widespread protests across the United States.
Background & Context: Kenworthy's Advocacy and Olympic Journey
Kenworthy, who was born in Chelmsford, Essex, and raised in Telluride, Colorado, has a history of using his platform to advocate for social issues. He previously won a silver medal in ski slopestyle at the Sochi 2014 Games and switched his allegiance to Team GB in 2019. His decision to speak out against ICE reflects his commitment to social justice, particularly concerning immigration policies in the U.S.
Official Statements & Responses
In an interview with BBC Sport, Kenworthy expressed the emotional toll of receiving violent and homophobic threats, stating, "It was tough. No-one wants to read bad things about themselves." He emphasized his belief in the righteousness of his stance, saying, "I think I'm on the right side." Kenworthy's comments highlight the challenges athletes face when engaging in political discourse, particularly in the context of their sporting careers.
Criticism & Opposition: Responses from Fellow Athletes
Hunter Hess, another U.S. skier competing in the Olympics, also addressed the political climate surrounding the Games. After qualifying for the halfpipe final, Hess made an 'L' sign against his forehead, a gesture in response to President Donald Trump's derogatory remarks about him. He stated, "Just because I'm wearing the flag doesn't mean I represent everything that's going on in the US," indicating a desire to separate his identity as an athlete from the political controversies surrounding the nation.
What's Next: Kenworthy's Future Projects
Beyond the Olympics, Kenworthy is set to join the producing team of the Off-West End production "Sugar Daddy," which explores themes of grief and queer identity. The show, starring Sam Morrison, will run from March 5 to April 4 at the Underbelly Boulevard theatre in Soho. Kenworthy's involvement in this project reflects his ongoing commitment to storytelling and advocacy within the LGBTQ+ community.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Kenworthy's death threats have been widely reported, the specific nature and volume of these threats remain unclear. Additionally, the broader implications of his social media activism on his Olympic performance and future career are yet to be fully explored.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was tough. No-one wants to read bad things about themselves, things that are threats and violent and scary and homophobic.” — Gus Kenworthy, Freestyle Skier
- “Just because I'm wearing the flag doesn't mean I represent everything that's going on in the US.” — Hunter Hess, U.S. Skier
