On February 4, 2026, the United States will be represented by speedskater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca as the flag bearers during the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. Erin Jackson, a 33-year-old speedskater from Florida, made headlines in 2022 by becoming the first Black woman worldwide to win an individual gold medal at a Winter Olympics. Frank Del Duca, 34, is a sergeant in the Army and is set to make his second Olympic appearance. The selection process showcased teamwork and respect, as both athletes were chosen through a vote by their fellow Team USA athletes. Jackson expressed that receiving such recognition from her teammates adds a layer of motivation for her ahead of her third Olympics. Del Duca, representing a family with Italian roots, remarked on the honor of competing in Italy, emphasizing the significance of this opportunity for him and his family. The announcement of Jackson and Del Duca as flag bearers was made on Tuesday by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Jackson hopes her role will inspire more representation of Black women in winter sports, reinforcing the spirit of the Olympics as a platform for connection and inspiration. The opening ceremony at Milan's San Siro will kick off the Games, which will run for more than two weeks, concluding on February 22. Jackson and Del Duca's selection marks a historic moment as they lead the U.S. team, with Jackson being the eighth speedskater to serve as flag bearer and Del Duca being the first bobsledder to do so in 70 years.