Additional Coverage:
- U.S. Olympic flag bearers are gold medalist speedskater Jackson and bobsledder Del Duca (nbcnews.com)
Team USA Taps Olympic Gold Medalist Erin Jackson and Veteran Bobsledder Frank Del Duca as Milan Cortina Flag Bearers
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee announced Tuesday that speedskater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca will proudly carry the American flag at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics in Italy. The esteemed athletes were chosen by a vote of their fellow Team USA members and revealed on the “TODAY” show.
Erin Jackson, a gold medalist from the 2022 Beijing Games, made history as the first Black woman from any country to win an Olympic gold medal in a Winter Olympics event, triumphing in the 500-meter speedskating competition. Hailing from Ocala, Florida, the 33-year-old expressed her surprise at this historical achievement, hoping her story and those of other Black women in winter sports will inspire future generations.
“Being chosen by their fellow athletes is a powerful reflection of the respect they’ve earned through their leadership, commitment, and the way they represent Team USA every day,” stated USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland. “Erin and Frank embody the values of excellence and unity that define our Olympic Team, and we’re proud to have them lead Team USA onto the world stage.”
Frank Del Duca, a 34-year-old bobsled pilot from Bethel, Maine, is set for his second Olympic appearance. A U.S.
Army sergeant stationed in Lake Placid, New York, Del Duca is part of the Army’s World Class Athlete Program, having joined in August 2019. He competed in both two-man and four-man bobsled events in Beijing.
Del Duca shared his immense gratitude for the honor on “TODAY,” calling it “something special” and a “surprise.” He highlighted the synergy between his military service and athletic career, noting how his Army experience has made him “a better father and teammate.”
The upcoming Games hold particular significance for Del Duca, whose family boasts strong Italian heritage. “There is no greater honor than leading Team USA into the Opening Ceremony in Italy.
It feels like a bridge between my family’s heritage, and the country I’m so proud to serve,” he remarked.
Jackson, who will be the eighth U.S. speedskater to bear the flag, described the role as a “tremendous honor” that represents her family, teammates, and hometown. She is “really excited to be the defending champion” and aims to bring home another medal. Del Duca will be the sixth bobsledder to receive this distinction.
The opening ceremony is scheduled for Friday, with competition commencing Wednesday with curling.