Erin Jackson and Frank Del Duca to Carry U.S. Flag at 2026 Olympics

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

Erin Jackson made history at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, where she became the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal in a Winter Olympics. Meanwhile, Del Duca, who serves as a sergeant in the U.S. Army, is set to compete in the Olympics for the second time.

“It’s a tremendous honor to represent the United States on such a significant stage,” Jackson shared in a statement. “This moment reflects more than just me. It’s for my family, my teammates, my hometown, and everyone who believes in the power of sport. The Olympics connect and inspire us all, and I’m proud to showcase that.” Jackson will compete alongside Sarah Warren in the 500-meter race and Brittany Bowe in the 1,000-meter race.

Del Duca expressed his surprise at being chosen as the standard bearer. “It really means a lot,” he remarked. “Anywhere would be special, but Italy makes it even more exciting. My grandparents were big fans of both Italy and America. They always believed it would be a perfect day for both nations to compete for gold. So, yes, this is truly cool and a great opportunity.” Last season, Del Duca finished fourth in both two-man and four-man bobsled events at the world championships. In his Olympic debut four years prior, he placed 13th in each race.

The opening ceremony for the Winter Olympics is scheduled for Friday.