Tate McRae Sparks Controversy with Team USA Ad for Winter Olympics 2026
Tate McRae has ignited a significant debate following her appearance in an NBC advertisement for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina. The Canadian singer, originally from Calgary, Alberta, showcased her support for Team USA, leading to a backlash from her Canadian fans.
Tate McRae’s Olympic Ad and Growing Controversy
In the advertisement, McRae engages in a whimsical exchange with an owl, asking for directions to Milan. She expresses her anticipation for the Olympics, particularly the opportunity to witness American athletes, including renowned skier Lindsey Vonn, while highlighting the excitement of the Super Bowl. McRae stated, “I’m trying to get to Milan for an amazing opening ceremony and meet Team USA.”
Public Reaction and Criticism
The response from Canadians on social media was swift and largely critical. Many users expressed feelings of betrayal, especially against the backdrop of historical tensions between the US and Canada. One tweet read, “Every year I feel more valid in my dislike of her. Girl why are you advertising for the USA team after that country threatened to annex your actual home country of Canada? Traitor s–t.”
- Another user sarcastically remarked, “Not the Canadian born and raised girl, promoting Team USA…”
- Another added critique, calling her “Trait McRator.”
Support for Tate McRae
Despite the backlash, some defenders of McRae emerged, arguing that her actions reflect the model of American immigration and assimilation. They noted, “Quote tweets are full of woke Canadians attacking her as a traitor for promoting Team USA. Tate McRae is part of our melting pot.”
Amid the controversy, McRae addressed the criticism on Instagram by sharing an image of herself as a child holding a Canadian flag, captioned, “Y’all know I’m Canada down.”
2026 Winter Olympics: Tensions Between US and Canada
The upcoming Winter Games are poised to be charged with emotion and rivalry. Last year, tensions escalated between the US and Canada, marked by President Trump’s controversial comments suggesting the annexation of Canada and the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods. These issues have set a tense backdrop as athletes prepare for competition.
Implications for Athletes
The rivalry has already manifested in competitive dynamics. Multiple players on the US women’s ice hockey team have voiced their readiness for physical confrontations, highlighting the intensity expected in matches against Canada. Caroline Harvey, a member of the team, shared, “They don’t like us very much. It’s more motivating than anything…”
As rivalry stirs, the Games could see fans vocally supporting their teams, potentially booing each other’s national anthems.
Conclusion
Tate McRae’s ad for Team USA has sparked a divisive conversation regarding national identity and loyalty in the context of sports. As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, the unfolding events will further illuminate the complex relations between the US and Canada.
