Milan, Italy — In a historic moment for Team USA, Olympic champion speedskater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca led the American delegation into the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics held at the iconic San Siro Stadium on Friday evening. Jackson, a Utah resident, made history as the first Black woman to win a gold medal in an individual sport at the Winter Olympics, and her presence as a flag bearer underscores her significance not only as an athlete but also as a trailblazer for diversity in sports. The selection of Jackson and Del Duca as flag bearers marks only the second time in U.S. Olympic history that a duo has been chosen to carry the flag. This honor is awarded based on a voting process conducted by the Team USA Athletes’ Commission, reflecting a deep respect among peers that transcends mere athletic accomplishments. According to Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the honor is a testament to the leadership qualities and commitment that both athletes embody. "Being chosen to represent the United States on the world stage is a tremendous honor," Jackson stated during the ceremony. "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." Jackson's journey to this moment has been remarkable. She is the eighth U.S. speedskater to serve as an Olympic flag bearer, a prestigious list that includes Erin Hamlin, who carried the flag during the 2018 Games. Jackson is entering her third Winter Olympics as the defending champion in the women’s 500m, a title she won in 2022 at the Beijing Games, making history in the process. Born in Ocala, Florida, Jackson transitioned from a successful career in inline skating to ice speed skating in 2017. Despite starting her ice skating career later than many of her competitors, she quickly established herself as one of the world's elite sprinters, securing 12 world championship medals and 47 national titles throughout her inline career. In Milan, she will compete in both the 500m and 1,000m events, showcasing her versatility and skill. "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," Jackson said, capturing the essence of the Olympic spirit. Alongside her, Del Duca, who serves as a sergeant in the U.S. Army, also expressed his pride in being selected as a flag bearer. Hailing from a family with strong Italian roots, Del Duca described the honor as particularly meaningful given the Games' location. "Nearly everyone in my family is of Italian descent. 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 said. Del Duca made his Olympic debut at the 2022 Beijing Games, and his selection as a flag bearer underscores his commitment to excellence. He started his bobsled career as a push athlete before becoming a driver and has already achieved notable success, placing fourth in both the two-man and four-man events at the 2025 World Championships. Now on his second Olympic team, Del Duca joins the ranks of elite bobsledders who have carried the flag, including Elana Meyers Taylor, who served in 2022. The opening ceremony was a spectacular display of culture, unity, and athletic spirit, featuring athletes from Team USA spread across the four venues of the 2026 Winter Olympics, which include Milan, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Predazzo, and Livigno. Each venue showcased its unique charm and culture as athletes prepared to compete in various sports. The ceremony highlighted Team USA's largest-ever Winter Olympic roster, consisting of 232 athletes, a testament to the nation's commitment to winter sports and the Olympic movement. Hirshland emphasized the significance of Jackson and Del Duca’s selection, stating, "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. 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." As the Olympics unfold in Milan, all eyes will be on Jackson and Del Duca not only as competitors but as symbols of the values and spirit of the Olympic Games. Their roles as flag bearers remind us that behind every athlete lies a story of dedication, perseverance, and the unifying power of sport. With the competition set to begin soon, the anticipation is palpable, and the world is eager to witness the unfolding of yet another chapter in Olympic history.