Milan: With the 2026 Winter Olympic Games set to commence, cross-country skier Matthew Smith and skeleton athlete Nicole Burger have been chosen to carry the South African flag at the opening ceremony.
According to South African Government News Agency, Smith, aged 35, and Burger, 31, are the most senior members among the five athletes representing Team South Africa at the XXV Winter Olympics. This marks the largest delegation the nation has ever sent to a Winter Games, with all participants experiencing their first senior-level Winter Olympics.
The South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SASCOC) announced the selection of the flag bearers ahead of the opening ceremony scheduled for Friday, 6 February, in Italy. Barry Hendricks, President of SASCOC, extended his congratulations to the athletes, expressing his delight in their representation at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. He remarked on the significance of the honor bestowed upon Smith and Burger, acknowledging the milestone of leading their nation at such a prestigious event.
Nozipho Jafta, CEO of SASCOC, noted the positive media attention garnered both locally and internationally by the presence of the athletes at the games. She emphasized the inspiration this brings to South African youth, encouraging them to aspire towards greater achievements. The anticipation of seeing the athletes in the green and gold of Team SA on the opening day was highlighted as a moment of national pride.
Both Smith and Burger, originally from South Africa, relocated and qualified for the international stage, underscoring the growth of winter sports in the country. This development reflects the pathways being established for future generations. The team also includes Malica Malherbe from British Columbia, Lara Markthaler from Germany, and Thomas Weir from Switzerland, who are promising young athletes aged 21, 18, and 17, respectively.
The 2026 Winter Olympic Games will take place from 6 to 22 February 2026.