Milano-Cortina, Italy — Mexican figure skater Donovan Carrillo had the honor of carrying the national flag during the opening ceremony of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, repeating a recognition he first experienced at Beijing 2022.
The image of Carrillo walking with the Mexican flag toward the ceremony once again moved Mexican sports fans. Through a video posted on his official Instagram account, the figure skater shared the moments leading up to one of the most symbolic moments of his career: carrying the Mexican flag at an Olympic opening for the second time.
Moments Before the Parade
In the footage, Carrillo appears with accreditations in hand and excitement visible on his face. The athlete himself explained the special meaning of that moment: “We’re here ready to enter the opening ceremony. They gave me two different accreditations. This one is for entering the event and this is the one they give to flag bearers. The flag at this moment is one of the most beautiful and exciting things I can experience. Living it a second time is a dream come true.”
The skater from Guadalajara will compete in figure skating during the Olympics and proudly paraded with the Mexican flag in the opening ceremony.
Donovan Carrillo Representing Mexico
This act holds historical significance, as Carrillo had already carried the national flag at Beijing 2022, becoming one of the few Mexican athletes to repeat that honor at the Winter Olympics.
The video quickly generated reactions of support and pride from followers and figures in national sports.
Decentralized Ceremony in Italy
In contrast with previous editions, the Milano-Cortina 2026 opening ceremony took place with a decentralized format. Rather than concentrating in a single location, the event occurred simultaneously at multiple points across Italy:
- San Siro, Milan: Donovan Carrillo
- Cortina d’Ampezzo: Sarah Schleper
- Livigno: Lasse Gaxiola
- Predazzo: Regina Martínez and Allan Corona (cross-country skiing)
Each athlete carried the Mexican flag at their respective venue, highlighting the national presence throughout the event.
Carrillo’s Competitive Goals
Beyond the symbolism, Carrillo has clear competitive goals. His performances will be:
- Tuesday, February 10, 11:30 AM Mexico City time: Short program, crucial for securing passage to the final
- Friday, February 13, 12:00 PM Mexico City time: Free program, decisive for climbing positions in the overall ranking and consolidating his place among the world’s figure skating elite
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