Team USA’s Flag Bearers for 2026 Olympics Announced

The U.S. Olympic team has revealed that speed skater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca will carry the flag during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics.

Jackson made history at the 2022 Olympics in Pyeongchang, where she became the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal in a Winter Olympics.

Del Duca, a sergeant in the U.S. Army, is set to compete in the Olympics for the second time.

In a statement, Jackson expressed her gratitude, saying, “It is truly an honor to represent the United States on such a significant platform.” She added, “This moment symbolizes more than just myself. It embodies my family, my teammates, my community, and everyone who believes in what sport can achieve. The Olympics highlight how sports unite and inspire us, and I’m proud to uphold that message.”

Jackson will compete alongside Sarah Warren in the 500-meter race and Brittany Bowe in the 1,000-meter race.

Del Duca shared his surprise at being named as a flag bearer, saying, “It means a lot. It really does.” He also noted that competing in Italy makes the moment even more special for his family. “My grandparents, though they are gone, always cheered for both Italy and America. They believed it was a perfect scenario for the Italians and Americans to chase after the gold medal together. So, yes, this is exciting. It’s a fantastic opportunity.”

Last season, Del Duca finished fourth in both the two- and four-man bobsled events at the world championships held in New York.

During his Olympic debut four years ago, he came in 13th in his races.

The opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics will take place on Friday.