Ilona Maher’s Viral ‘Go USA’ Campaign Amid Winter Olympics Sparks Unity Message, Simone Biles Shows Support

Ilona Maher recently launched the ‘Go USA’ campaign at the Winter Olympics being held in the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. The rugby player had come out to cheer for the American contingent at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.

Maher represents Team USA in women’s rugby. The American team created history at the 2025 Paris Olympics, when the women’s team won the first Olympic medal in rugby sevens by defeating Australia in the bronze medal playoffs.

Simone Biles Backs Ilona Maher for ‘Go USA’ Campaign At 2026 Winter Olympics

Maher recently shared a reel from one of the events she attended at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics 2026. The 29-year-old rugby player dropped the following reaction,

“So Go USA.”

The rugby player explained the rationale behind this campaign as she advocated for national unity during the turbulent phase the USA is going through. In her words,

“When I say, ‘Go USA!’ I am not condoning what is happening in my country. I say, ‘Go USA!’ for all the athletes who I believe are a beautiful representation of what America should be. Those who are following a dream, like many of their ancestors who dreamt of a better life and came to America for it.

I say, “Go USA,” because I know the hours put in not just by the athletes but by the communities around America that raised them to be great. I say, “Go USA” in hopes that we will become a country that doesn’t just say “love thy neighbor” but actually embodies it.”

Biles was supported in this noble initiative by many celebrities, including Biles, who sent a support statement emoji in the comment section. She also shared Maher’s post on her Instagram story.

Biles had previously backed Bad Bunny during the Super Bowl halftime show controversy that occurred less than a week ago. The Puerto Rican rapper and singer was seen flashing a football embossed with the following words,

“TOGETHER WE ARE AMERICA!”

READ MORE: Olympic Rugby Star Ilona Maher Turns Cheerleader for Sister Olivia’s Marathon Debut in New York

Though the gesture drew criticism from a section of viewers, including President Trump, most viewers backed the artist, including Simone Biles. The gymnast shared the status on her Instagram story with the following caption,

“The only thing More Powerful Than Hate Is Love.”

Simone Biles and Ilona Maher have been supportive of each other’s initiatives. Interestingly, both have taken part in the dance reality show ‘Dancing with the Stars’, although they participated in different editions [Biles participated in 2017, while Maher participated in the 2024 edition].