American billionaire Ross Stevens has become one of the central figures of the Winter Olympic Games currently taking place in Italy — not by competing, but by making sure that those representing his country don’t have to worry about financial insecurity.
The American billionaire, who is the owner of Stone Ridge Holdings Group, has decided to support U.S. athletes competing in the Games, effectively making all 232 participants financially secure.
He has donated a staggering sum that will amount to $200,000 for each athlete, provided as a health and financial guarantee, regardless of the position they finish in their events. All athletes will be treated equally, with the goal of giving the United States the best possible chance to dominate the competition. Even those who finish last will benefit, reports Gazeta Express.
“I want to prevent financial uncertainty from holding our elite athletes back from reaching new levels of excellence,” Stevens said.
To that end, he has established a fund of approximately $100 million, guaranteeing that every athlete will receive $100,000 upon turning 45, or 20 years after their first Olympic appearance. In addition, another $100,000 will be paid to their families upon the athlete’s death.
This unprecedented guarantee makes these Winter Olympic Games especially unique for American athletes.
