Speedskater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca were selected as flag bearers for Team USA for the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony on Friday (February 6), ABC News reports.
Jackson, 33, who will compete in her third Olympic games, became the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal at the Winter Olympics in the 500m at the 2022 Beijing Games. Del Duca, 34, an Army sergeant who will compete in his second Olympic games, will become the first bobsledder to carry the flag during the opening ceremony in 70 years.
The two athletes were officially announced by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee on Tuesday (February 3).
“Being chosen to represent the United States on the world stage is a tremendous honor,” Jackson said via ABC News. “It’s a moment that reflects far more than one individual — it represents my family, my teammates, my hometown, and everyone across the country who believes in the power of sport. The Olympics remind us of the power of sport to connect and inspire, and I’m proud to carry that forward on the Olympic stage.”
Del Duca, whose family has deep Italian roots, said he found the opportunity especially meaningful given that the opening ceremony will spread across several Italian cities.
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