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The excitement is palpable as the Canadian Olympic Committee has officially named Mikaël Kingsbury and Marielle Thompson as the flag bearers for Team Canada at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics. This prestigious event will take place during the opening ceremony on February 6, 2026, in the picturesque setting of Livigno, Italy. Both athletes are set to make their fourth Olympic appearance, bringing a wealth of experience and determination to the stage.
The significance of the flag bearer role
Carrying the national flag is not merely a ceremonial task; it symbolizes the pride and unity of a nation. Kingsbury, a renowned moguls skier, expressed his profound honor at being selected to uphold this responsibility. He remarked, “Receiving this news gave me goosebumps. It’s one of the greatest honors of my life, and I take immense pride in it.” With three Olympic medals to his name and a staggering 100 World Cup victories, Kingsbury’s journey in the sport is nothing short of inspiring.
Historic opening ceremony across multiple venues
The opening ceremony for the Milano Cortina Olympics will be a unique spectacle, held simultaneously across various locations including Milan’s iconic San Siro Stadium and the stunning mountain ranges of Cortina and Predazzo. This innovative format marks a first in Olympic history, showcasing the beautiful diversity of Northern Italy. More than 200 Canadian athletes will join competitors from 92 nations, all gathered in six Olympic villages spread over 22,000 square kilometers.
Profiles of the flag bearers
Mikaël Kingsbury, hailing from Deux-Montagnes, Quebec, made his Olympic debut in Sochi in 2014, where he secured a silver medal. He followed this achievement with a golden victory in PyeongChang 2018 and another silver in Beijing 2026. As the first male moguls skier to win three Olympic medals, Kingsbury’s prowess on the slopes is well-documented. At 33 years old, he is preparing for what he has indicated may be his final Olympic competition, eager to leave a lasting legacy.
Marielle Thompson, originally from Whistler, British Columbia, shares a similar Olympic journey. Thompson captured gold in ski cross at the Sochi Games and added a silver medal in Beijing 2026, showcasing her resilience after overcoming significant injuries. She has fought back from multiple knee surgeries, demonstrating her tenacity and dedication to her sport. Now, as she approaches the 2026 Games, she is focused on reclaiming her position at the top of the podium.
Challenges and triumphs
Thompson’s journey has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. After a knee injury last season, she faced a tough comeback, but her determination shone through when she finished strongly in Veysonnaz, Switzerland, recently. Reflecting on her challenges, Thompson stated, “Each injury has taught me something valuable and made me a stronger athlete.” Her journey is a testament to the spirit of perseverance that embodies Olympic athletes.
Looking ahead to the Games
As both Kingsbury and Thompson prepare to take the stage as flag bearers, they carry not only their personal aspirations but also the hopes of their fellow athletes and the entire nation. The camaraderie they share, having competed alongside each other throughout their careers, adds a special layer of meaning to this honor. Kingsbury noted, “It’s truly special to do this alongside Marielle, especially since we started in our sport around the same time.”
With the opening ceremony approaching, the excitement continues to build. Fans can look forward to live coverage of the event on CBC-TV, starting with a pre-show leading up to the main ceremony. As Kingsbury and Thompson lead their team, they will embody the spirit of sportsmanship and the dedication that defines the Olympic Games.
As the world tunes in to witness this momentous occasion, both athletes strive to leave their mark on Olympic history, continuing to inspire future generations of Canadian athletes.