Former ESPN host and respected sports journalist Sarah Spain recently opened up about an unsettling experience she had while attending the 2026 Winter Olympics. Speaking on her podcast, Good Game with Sarah Spain, Spain described feeling physically uncomfortable while seated near U.S.

Vice President JD Vance during a women’s hockey game. What was meant to be an exciting Olympic event, she said, turned into a frustrating and tense experience.

The incident took place during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, where Vance and other U.S. officials were present to support Team USA. According to Spain, about twelve minutes into the first period of the game, a large security presence suddenly surrounded her section. Secret Service agents filled the area as Vance arrived with his entourage, followed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Spain said the sudden influx of security created a physical barrier between her and the ice, obstructing her view and disrupting her ability to fully follow the game.

Beyond the blocked sightlines, Spain described having a strong physical reaction to Vance’s proximity. On her podcast, she used vivid and emotional language to explain that she felt unexpectedly “ill,” comparing the sensation to being startled or spooked. She emphasized that she was not prepared for the close encounter and that her body reacted instinctively. While her comments sparked debate online, she framed her response as a genuine physical feeling rather than a calculated statement.

Spain also expressed frustration over how the heavy security presence affected the spectator experience. The U.S. women’s hockey team ultimately secured a decisive 5–0 victory, but Spain said she could not fully enjoy or properly observe the action because security personnel were blocking portions of the rink. For journalists covering live events, unobstructed visibility is essential, and Spain argued that the setup compromised both enjoyment and professional coverage.

The episode has since fueled broader conversations about the intersection of sports, politics, and media access. High-profile political figures frequently attend global sporting events, bringing necessary security measures with them. However, Spain’s experience highlights the logistical and emotional challenges that can arise when political presence intersects with live sports coverage. Her candid remarks have prompted discussion about balancing national representation, security needs, and the integrity of the spectator and journalistic experience at major international competitions.