In this magazine cover released by Sports Illustrated, Stephen Colbert poses in a speedskating suit. (Michael O'Neill/Associated Press)

Television host Stephen Colbert is going the comedic distance with his image splashed on the glossy cover of Sports Illustrated decked out in a skin-tight speedskating uniform, complete with a tie.

The satiric host of The Colbert Report appears on the magazine's latest issue, due out this week, as part of his ongoing support for the U.S. speedskating team.

The mock right-wing pundit came to the aid of the team after its largest supporter, DSB Bank NV, declared bankruptcy in October. Colbert's fundraising efforts have so far netted $250,000 US for the team.

The magazine's latest issue, emblazoned with "Stephen Colbert and his nation save the Olympics," concerns sports media. It's also a sly reference to the comedian's jab at Olympic officials in Canada.

Colbert has launched a campaign against organizers at Vancouver's Winter Olympics, labeling Canadians as "syrup suckers" and "ice holes," after reports that staff have limited access to the Richmond Olympic Oval and other venues to international athletes.

The Richmond oval, just south of Vancouver, will be the venue for the long track speedskating events.

On Nov. 17, the City of Richmond sent an official letter to Colbert wanting to know if he would serve as "an official ombudsman to monitor the treatment of Americans during the Games."

The comedian announced earlier this month he would be accepting the invite to attend the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver with one proviso — he would only do it as a member of the American Olympic team.

On his show, the comedian responded: "I have no idea what an ombudsman is, but as long as it requires no effort from me, I proudly accept."

Other comedians have previously graced the sports publication's cover including Bob Hope in 1963 and Chris Rock in 2000.

With files from The Associated Press