Jackson Leads Team USA in Nations Parade | Olympics 2024
- February 9, 2026 – Speed skater Erin Jackson will carry the American flag during the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy.
- The selection of Jackson as a flag-bearer is a significant moment for the athlete, who transitioned to speed skating relatively recently.
- And now I found a sport where that's the objective,” Jackson said, reflecting on her transition to ice skating.
Erin Jackson to Lead Team USA at Milan Cortina Winter Olympics
– Speed skater Erin Jackson will carry the American flag during the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy. Jackson shares the honor with bobsledder Frank del Duca, according to reports.
The selection of Jackson as a flag-bearer is a significant moment for the athlete, who transitioned to speed skating relatively recently. While she has been a skater since childhood, Jackson initially excelled in inline skating and roller derby, even becoming a world champion in the sport. She began training on the ice in 2017 and quickly qualified for the 2018 Winter Games in PyeongChang.
“I just had always enjoyed going fast on skates. And now I found a sport where that’s the objective,” Jackson said, reflecting on her transition to ice skating.
The honor of carrying the flag is determined by a vote of Team USA, signifying the respect her fellow athletes have for her accomplishments, and character. The Parade of Nations, a key part of every Opening Ceremony, provides a platform for athletes from all competing countries to showcase their national pride.
Jackson’s journey to the Olympics is notable for its unconventional path. Coming from a background in inline skating, she demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and succeed in a new discipline. Her story resonates as an example of perseverance and the pursuit of athletic excellence.
Fans can watch the 2026 Winter Olympics on NBC and Peacock. Team USA’s entrance into the San Siro stadium during the Opening Ceremony, led by Jackson and del Duca, was a highlight of the event, as seen in footage available online.
While no medals have been awarded yet, Jackson’s selection as flag-bearer already marks a prestigious achievement in the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Her presence represents not only her individual success but also the spirit of Team USA.
The 2026 Winter Olympics are currently underway in Milan and Cortina, Italy, bringing together athletes from around the globe to compete in a variety of winter sports. The Games provide a stage for showcasing athletic talent and fostering international camaraderie.