Florida and winter don’t usually go together, but as the 2026 Winter Olympics are officially underway, you’d be surprised at how many athletes with ties to the Sunshine State are in the competition!
From Ocala-born speed skaters to NHL stars from the Panthers and Lightning, Florida is well represented this year. In fact, we’ve even swept the honors for Team USA’s leadership! Floridians Erin Jackson and Frank Del Duca served as the flag bearers for Friday’s opening ceremony.
Here are the gifted local athletes fighting for the gold:
⛸️ Speed Skating
- Erin Jackson from Ocala: A 2022 gold medalist and the first Black woman to win an individual Winter Olympic gold. She is competing in the 1,000m and 500m events.
- Brittany Bowe from Ocala: Four-time Olympian and world record holder competing in the women’s 1,000m, 1,500m, and 500m races.
- Mia Manganello from Crestview: Two-time Olympian and bronze medalist competing in the 1,000m and the Mass Start.
🛷 Bobsled & Luge
- Frank Del Duca from Fort Lauderdale: Bobsled pilot and U.S. Army Sergeant from South Florida competing in the two-man and four-man events.
- Josh Williamson from Sanford: A former FSU student who won the first season of reality TV show “The Next Olympic Hopeful.” He will compete in the two-man and four-man Bobsleigh.
🎿 Alpine Skiing & Freestyle Skiing
- Lindsey Vonn of Miami: The famed alpine skier, who has spent significant time living in Miami, came out of retirement for the 2026 Games and recently tore her ACL, but will still compete.
- Nick Page from Hollywood: Freestyle skier competing in the men’s moguls and dual moguls.
⛸️ Figure Skating
- Andrew Torgashev from Coral Springs: Representing South Florida in men’s single skating.
🏒 Ice Hockey
- Jack and Quinn Hughes from Orlando: These superstar brothers — Quinn (defenseman) and Jack (forward) — will be on Team USA’s men’s hockey team.
- NHL Florida pros: While not native Floridians, three stars currently playing for the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning are representing Team USA: Matthew Tkachuk, Seth Jones and Jake Guentzel.
📺 How to watch the 2026 Olympics
Whether you’re catching all the action live or looking for primetime highlights, here’s exactly how to tune in. Although keep in mind that Italy is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time. Peacock is the primary home for the Games, but if you prefer flipping channels, the Games are spread across NBC, USA Network and CNBC. You can also use the NBC Sports App or visit NBCOlympics.com by logging in with your TV provider credentials.