Team GB Announces Flagbearers for Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony
Team GB has officially named bobsleigh pilot Brad Hall and ice dancer Lilah Fear as the flagbearers for the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony. This prestigious selection highlights their roles as senior leaders within the 53-strong British squad competing across various venues in northern Italy.
Dual Ceremony Roles Across Multiple Venues
Due to the Games being spread across multiple locations, a unique arrangement has been implemented. Lilah Fear will carry the British flag at San Siro in Milan, while Brad Hall will lead the party in Cortina d'Ampezzo. This ensures that Team GB is prominently represented at both major hubs of the opening ceremony on Friday, February 6, 2026.
Brad Hall's Impressive Bobsleigh Career
Brad Hall is recognised as the most successful men's bobsleigh pilot in British history, boasting an impressive tally of 30 World Cup medals. He has been a trailblazer for the sport, famously leading his crew to Britain's first four-man World Championship medal since 1939, marking a significant milestone in British winter sports.
Lilah Fear's Historic Figure Skating Achievements
Lilah Fear made history in 2025 by winning Britain's first figure skating World Championship medal in over 40 years alongside her partner Lewis Gibson. She is also the first British ice dancer to serve as flagbearer since the legendary Christopher Dean in 1984, underscoring her impact on the sport.
Selection Based on Leadership and Integrity
Both athletes were selected by Chef de Mission Eve Muirhead for their "One Team" culture and their positive influence on teammates. Their selection rewards not just their podium finishes, but their integrity and professionalism as ambassadors for British winter sport, emphasising the importance of character in Olympic representation.
Symbolic Uniforms for the Ceremony
For the ceremony, both flagbearers will wear unique hand-knit scarves and hats designed in a collaboration between Ben Sherman and Olympic diving legend Tom Daley. These items symbolise the unity of Team GB across both the Summer and Winter Olympic cycles, blending tradition with modern design.
The announcement has generated excitement among fans, with many praising the choice of Hall and Fear as representatives of Team GB's diverse talent and commitment to excellence in winter sports.
