Representation at the Forefront: Team USA Taps Erin Jackson for Opening Ceremony
Erin Jackson is set to lead the U.S. delegation as a flag bearer for the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 on Friday. The announcement, made Tuesday by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, follows a vote by Jackson’s fellow Team USA athletes.
Jackson, who enters her third Olympic Games, will share the honor with bobsledder Frank Del Duca. The selection marks a significant milestone for the 33-year-old speed skater, who became the first Black woman from any country to win an individual gold medal in any sport at a Winter Olympics, when she topped the podium in the 500-meter event at the 2022 Beijing Games.
"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," USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said. "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.”
A native of Ocala, Florida, Jackson has navigated a unique trajectory to the pinnacle of winter sports. Originally a standout in the world of inline speed skating and roller derby, she transitioned to the ice just four months before qualifying for her first Olympic team in 2018. While she finished 24th in her debut at the PyeongChang Games, she has since become a dominant force in the sport, securing 28 World Cup medals and back-to-back World Cup titles in the 500-meter distance.
Despite her individual success, Jackson told The Associated Press that she does not want to be the only Black woman to reach such heights in the Winter Games. She has been vocal about increasing representation and making speed skating more accessible, noting that the high entry cost remains a primary barrier for minority athletes.
The Opening Ceremony is scheduled to take place Feb. 6 at the San Siro Stadium in Milan. Jackson is slated to compete in both the 500-meter and 1,000-meter events as she looks to defend her gold medal and further her impact on the sport.
