Windfall for U.S. Olympians – nearly 1 million SEK each

A massive private donation to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committees could stabilize the future for hundreds of American athletes.

Starting this winter, a ticket to the Olympic or Paralympic Games will be worth $100,000 (about 947,000 SEK) for each athlete selected to Team USA. Payments will be split into four installments and begin either 20 years after the athlete’s Olympic/Paralympic participation or when the athlete turns 45.

Cross-country skier Gus Schumacher told AP the sum is significant in low‑pay sports like cross‑country skiing: “It will be a lot of money.” Biathlete Deedra Irwin, who competed at Beijing 2022, noted many U.S. athletes operate near the poverty line and described personal struggles earlier in her career.

Athletes will also receive an additional ~$947,000 SEK upon their death, paid to a designated beneficiary. The benefit rises with multiple appearances; for example, a three‑time Olympian would receive $600,000 in total.

Eligibility is restricted to athletes earning under $1 million per year. The program is funded by a donation worth about 945 million SEK from philanthropist Ross Stevens, a finance executive in the crypto sector. It is the largest gift to the U.S. Olympic/Paralympic programs, which, unlike many nations, receive no government funding and rely on sponsorships, media rights, and donations.

SVT notes that it will broadcast both the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Milan/Cortina.