The United States has announced that speedskater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca will be the flag bearers for Team USA at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. This significant selection highlights their achievements and represents a historic moment for the delegation during the Parade of Nations at the opening ceremony.
Erin Jackson, 33, is not only a celebrated athlete but also a trailblazer, making history as the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal at the Winter Olympics. She will be competing in her third Winter Games, aiming to defend the gold she won at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. Del Duca, 34, is a sergeant in the U.S. Army and the first bobsledder to serve as flag bearer in 70 years. He made his Olympic debut in Beijing and has been involved in the sport for over a decade.
Their selection was made through a vote by fellow Team USA athletes, marking them as the second duo to carry the flag in the Olympic history of gender parity at the opening ceremony, a practice initiated by the International Olympic Committee in 2020 to promote inclusivity.
Expressing her gratitude and honor, Jackson remarked, “It represents my family, my teammates, my hometown, and everyone across the country who believes in the power of sport.” Del Duca echoed this sentiment, saying, “Being flag bearer for Team USA is an incredible honor… I’m grateful for the support from my teammates, coaches and staff.”
The opening ceremony, with the theme of “harmony,” aims to celebrate togetherness and transcend boundaries. It will take place on February 6 and is expected to draw around 60,000 spectators, showcasing the spirit of unity and competition that embodies the Olympic Games.
Fans can tune in to the live coverage on NBC, commencing at 2 p.m. Eastern time, with an encore presentation later that evening. This year’s event promises to be a memorable celebration of athletic excellence and diversity.