Eliud Kipchoge’s legacy within the Olympic movement has taken on a new and symbolic chapter after the Kenyan marathon great was named an official Olympic flag bearer for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. The honour, bestowed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in partnership with the Milano Cortina 2026 Foundation, places Kipchoge among a select group of globally respected figures chosen to represent the core values of Olympism. He is set to carry the Olympic flag during the opening ceremony at Milan’s iconic San Siro Stadium on Friday, February 6, 2026.
A Global Honour Beyond Competition
Kipchoge is one of eight distinguished personalities selected from the worlds of sport, advocacy and international leadership. The group features celebrated athletes including Brazilian gymnastics star Rebeca Andrade, Cameroonian boxer Cindy Ngamba, and Tongan multi-sport athlete Pita Taufatofua. They are joined by influential global figures such as former Hiroshima mayor Tadatoshi Akiba, Italian humanitarian Nicolò Govoni, and former UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi. Together, the flag bearers will lead a ceremony centred on unity, resilience and shared global values.
From Champion Runner to Global Sports Ambassador
For Kipchoge, the role marks a graceful evolution from elite competitor to international sports statesman. Having competed in his final Olympic race at Paris 2024, the recognition crowns a remarkable two-decade career at the highest level of athletics. The honour also aligns with his current responsibilities as the Male Athletes’ Representative at the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, reinforcing his growing influence beyond the marathon course.
A Milestone for Kenya at the Winter Games
Kipchoge’s selection also shines a spotlight on Kenya’s expanding Olympic story. At Milano Cortina 2026, Kenya will, for the first time, be represented by two athletes at a Winter Olympics, alpine skiers Sabrina Simader and Issa Laborde. With Kipchoge leading the opening ceremony, Kenya’s presence at the Games extends beyond its traditional dominance in track events into the emerging realm of winter sports.
