Sports Economy: From Extraction to Innovation

Moguls skiing typically struggles for attention at the Winter Olympics, overshadowed by figure skating, alpine skiing, and hockey. However, American freeskier **Jaelin Kauf** may change that narrative at the 2026 Milano Cortina Games. **Key Points:** - Kauf's exceptional performance on the moguls course is drawing increased interest to the sport - The 2026 Olympics could mark a breakthrough moment for moguls racing in U.S. viewership - This follows a pattern of emerging American winter sports stars, including speed skater Jordan Stolz The shift in attention reflects how individual athlete excellence can transform public perception of niche Olympic events. [Read the full interview with Jaelin Kauf](https://time.com/7360770/jaelin-kauf-olympics-2026-interview-freeski/)

President Donald Trump publicly criticized Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime performance, calling it "absolutely terrible" and "one of the worst ever" in a lengthy statement. **Key Points:** - Trump issued harsh criticism of the historic performance - The statement was described as lengthy and direct - Bad Bunny's appearance marked a significant cultural moment at the Super Bowl The criticism adds to Trump's history of public commentary on entertainment figures and major cultural events. The performance itself was noted as historic, though Trump's response focused on his negative assessment. Read more: [TIME Article](https://time.com/7373048/trump-bad-bunny-super-bowl-performance-criticism/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=editorial&utm_content=090226)

**Trump Closes Kennedy Center Through End of Term** Donald Trump announced via social media that he will shut down the Kennedy Center, Washington D.C.'s leading performing arts venue, for two years—effectively the remainder of his presidential term. **Key Developments:** - Trump recently took control of the institution by ousting its leader and installing loyalists - Named himself chairman of the board - Closure framed as reconstruction period - Decision follows [earlier controversy](https://time.com/7364391/trump-kennedy-center-closure-july-renovations-controversy/) about the planned shutdown TIME senior correspondent Philip Elliot provides analysis of the president's decision to shutter the capital's dominant cultural institution.

**Prince William and Kate Middleton have issued their first public statement regarding the Jeffrey Epstein files**, addressing the ongoing scandal involving Prince Andrew. The statement comes after years of controversy surrounding Prince Andrew's association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In November 2025, King Charles stripped Andrew of his royal title amid mounting pressure over the Epstein connections. **Key developments:** - First direct comment from William and Kate on the Epstein matter - Follows previous action by King Charles removing Andrew's title - Addresses documents that have kept the scandal in public view The royal couple's decision to speak publicly marks a significant shift in how the younger generation of royals is handling the fallout from the Epstein affair. The statement represents an attempt to distance the future of the monarchy from the controversy that has plagued Prince Andrew. Read the full statement: [TIME Magazine](https://time.com/7373053/prince-william-kate-middleton-address-epstein-files-andrew-scandal/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=editorial&utm_content=090226)

**Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show delivered layers of cultural significance beyond its surface spectacle.** The performance followed Kendrick Lamar's 2025 show, which previously redefined halftime show conventions. Bad Bunny's appearance continued this trend of artists using the massive platform to convey deeper messages. **Key aspects:** - The performance contained symbolic elements that resonated beyond entertainment - Built on the precedent set by previous culturally significant halftime shows - Demonstrated how artists use mainstream platforms for meaningful expression The show exemplifies how major cultural moments can carry multiple layers of meaning, rewarding closer examination beyond initial impressions. Read the full analysis: [TIME's coverage](https://time.com/7373018/bad-bunny-super-bowl-halftime-show-analysis/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=editorial&utm_content=090226)