Tate McRae sparks backlash after appearing in Team USA Olympics ad

Tate McRae faces backlash for Team USA Olympics ad despite her Canadian roots before the 2026 Winter Games start

Pop star Tate McRae is facing online backlash after appearing in a promotional advertisement for Team USA ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. 

The NBC Sports commercial, released on February 3, features the Canadian-born singer expressing excitement about attending the Milan Opening Ceremony and meeting American athletes.

In the ad, the 22-year-old tells a snowy owl she hopes to witness “America’s best skating for gold” and Lindsey Vonn’s anticipated return to competition. While the campaign aimed to build anticipation for the Winter Games, some viewers quickly questioned why a Canadian artist was promoting the U.S. team.

Team USA? Aren’t you team Canada @tatemcrae? pic.twitter.com/uulBn6Hoxl

— Made In Canada (@MadelnCanada) February 4, 2026

Selling out for usa is the most albertan thing she could do to be fair https://t.co/HIQ8CsLlVv

— bebe ᘛ⁐̤ᕐᐷ (@EkbladCrave) February 4, 2026

McRae, who was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, has long been associated with Canadian culture and sports, including her support for the NHL’s Calgary Flames. Critics on social media accused the singer of distancing herself from her roots, with some calling the endorsement surprising given her nationality. Others wondered why a U.S. broadcaster selected a Canadian celebrity to represent its Olympic messaging.

However, McRae’s involvement may not be entirely unexpected. The singer has recently been linked to New Jersey Devils star Jack Hughes, who is set to represent Team USA in men’s hockey at the upcoming Games. The pair were spotted together in New York City in late 2025 after McRae attended one of Hughes’ home games, further fueling public interest.

The 2026 Winter Olympics begin with the Opening Ceremony on February 6, launching weeks of international competition. Despite the criticism, McRae has not publicly addressed the backlash, and the advertisement continues to circulate online as Olympic excitement builds.