On December 11, 2025, the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) made a historic announcement, naming rapper, entrepreneur, and cultural icon Snoop Dogg as the first-ever honorary coach for Team USA in the lead-up to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy. This unique appointment places Snoop Dogg in the “Team Behind the Team” group, a support network of coaches, trainers, and personnel who help ensure that athletes are prepared both physically and mentally for the challenges of the Olympic Games.
The decision to appoint Snoop Dogg to this honorary role is part of a broader trend in which figures from the entertainment industry are increasingly becoming involved in major international sports events. These personalities help raise awareness, engage fans, and offer moral support, all while contributing to the overall experience of the Games. For Snoop, this role comes as a recognition of the long-standing positive rapport he has built with athletes. His previous appearances at the Olympic Games, particularly his support of Team USA athletes during the Paris Games, demonstrated his ability to connect with the athletes on a personal level, providing them with motivation and encouragement when they needed it most.
Snoop Dogg’s influence extends well beyond his musical career. He has built a reputation as a strong advocate for youth sports, particularly through his Snoop Youth Football League, which has served thousands of young athletes. This initiative reflects Snoop’s belief in the power of sports to build character, discipline, and community. His work with youth athletes has been instrumental in providing opportunities to underprivileged children and helping them develop a love for sports, while teaching valuable life lessons along the way.
As honorary coach for Team USA, Snoop Dogg’s role will not involve coaching in the traditional sense but rather supporting athletes off the field. His presence will be aimed at boosting team morale, motivating athletes, and providing a sense of unity during the lead-up to the Games. He will be working alongside the athletes, helping them feel supported and confident as they prepare to compete on the world stage. His unique connection to both the world of sports and entertainment makes him an ideal figure to bridge these two worlds, ensuring that Team USA athletes are not only physically prepared but also emotionally and mentally resilient.
This appointment reflects a shift in the way major international sporting events are viewed, where the influence of entertainment and cultural figures is increasingly seen as an integral part of the experience. Having someone like Snoop Dogg, whose appeal transcends music and culture, will undoubtedly bring a new, energetic vibe to Team USA. It also highlights the growing importance of creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere around the Games, one that connects athletes with their fans and fosters a sense of collective achievement.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics draw nearer, Snoop Dogg’s involvement with Team USA will likely energize both athletes and fans alike. His unique position as an influential figure in the world of music, sports, and culture will undoubtedly add a fresh dimension to the Olympic experience, while also reinforcing the power of community and support in achieving success. With his iconic status and genuine passion for sports, Snoop is sure to make an unforgettable impact on Team USA’s journey to Milano Cortina.
