U.S. Flagbearers Announced for Milan Cortina Winter Olympics

Speedskater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca have been selected as the U.S. flagbearers for the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The announcement was made by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee on Tuesday.

Jackson, 33, is recognized as the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal at a Winter Olympics. Del Duca, 34, is a sergeant in the Army and comes from a family with Italian heritage.

A Historic Selection

Jackson will be the eighth U.S. speedskater to carry the flag into an Olympic opening ceremony. Del Duca is the first bobsledder to have this role in 70 years.

"Being chosen is a significant honor that represents her family, teammates, hometown, and the broader country," Jackson stated.

Milan Cortina's Unique Ceremony

The upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics will feature an unusual opening ceremony due to its spread-out nature. The main ceremony is set to occur in Milan, with additional ceremonies and athlete parades planned for Predazzo, Livigno, and Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Del Duca's Personal Connection

Del Duca, who is the top U.S. bobsled pilot in both two- and four-man racing, expressed surprise at his selection. He highlighted his deep Italian-American cultural background, noting that three of his four grandparents were Italian.

He described the opportunity to carry the flag in his family's ancestral homeland as particularly meaningful.

Echoes from Beijing

At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, U.S. bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor was initially chosen to carry the flag but tested positive for COVID-19, leading to speedskater Brittany Bowe stepping in for the opening ceremony. Meyers Taylor carried the flag during the closing ceremony.

Recent Triumphs and Dedication

Del Duca's recent achievements include placing fourth in both two- and four-man events at last season's world championships in Lake Placid, New York. He made his Olympic debut in Beijing, finishing 13th in both races.

He emphasized the profound significance of representing his country, especially as a member of the Army and with the games being held in Italy.