Jake Paul turned his appearance at the Winter Olympics into a social media flashpoint after backing law enforcement and criticizing several celebrities and athletes who have spoken out against Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The professional boxer traveled to Italy to support his fiancée, Dutch speed-skating star Jutta Leerdam, who is preparing to compete in the 1,000-meter event. During his visit, Paul also attended a U.S. women’s hockey matchup against Finland alongside Vice President JD Vance, where the American team secured a decisive 5–0 victory.
Following the game, Paul posted on social media arguing that those who oppose ICE should reconsider relying on emergency services. He wrote that individuals who do not support immigration enforcement or respect law enforcement should not depend on those same authorities in times of crisis.
Paul also criticized musician Billie Eilish, who had previously used her Grammy Awards speech to condemn ICE and make broader political remarks about immigration. In his posts, Paul suggested that critics of law enforcement would change their tone if they personally required police assistance.
The boxer additionally took aim at comments made by U.S. Olympic freestyle skier Hunter Hess, who had said he had mixed feelings about representing the United States at the current Games. Paul responded sharply online, telling athletes who do not want to represent the country that they should consider living elsewhere.
Photos circulating from the hockey arena showed Paul and Vance posing with a young fan, both striking mock fighting stances in the stands.
Paul’s primary reason for traveling to the Games, however, is Leerdam’s competition schedule. The Dutch speed skater, a seven-time world champion, previously won a silver medal at the Beijing Olympics and is viewed as a strong contender for gold in her event. Her trip to the Games has also drawn criticism from a Dutch reporter who questioned her decision to fly privately rather than with her national team.
As Olympic events continue, Paul’s commentary has sparked debate online, with supporters praising his defense of law enforcement and critics accusing him of inflaming political tensions during an international sporting event.
