source: Instagram/@usa_football
In a captivating showcase of talent and perseverance, the U.S. men’s and women’s flag football teams won gold medals at the world championships in Finland.This victory extends their reign in the sport, but with flag football set to debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, other nations are quickly closing the gap.
On Friday, the American men clinched their fifth consecutive title, while the women earned their third straight gold. They achieved this by defeating Austria and Mexico in the finals of the largest world championships so far, which saw 54 teams from 30 countries compete.
Flag football, a non-contact variation of American football played with five players per side, was officially added to the 2028 Olympic program last October. It’s important to remember that American football was last showcased as a demonstration sport at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics.
Mexican quarterback Diana Flores, a prominent figure in the sport, expressed her pride and excitement after her team’s loss in the final. “It’s incredible to see how the sport is evolving and the level of talent worldwide. I’m so proud of my teammates and excited for what’s ahead,” Flores told Reuters from Lahti.
Flores, who appeared in a TV commercial during the 2023 Super Bowl, dreams of leading her team to Olympic glory. “Every day, I think about it. I dream of representing my country and winning an Olympic medal. It would be amazing,” she said.
Although the U.S. may have pioneered flag football, the sport is gaining traction globally. Its simplified format compared to tackle football is making it more accessible and appealing to other nations. Flores praised Team Japan for their rapid progress. “Japan’s growth over the past year has been impressive. Their speed and intelligence on the field are remarkable, and they’re sure to keep improving,” she noted.
Japan reached the semi-finals before falling to Mexico.
Flag football is played on a 70×25 yard field, with no blocking, kicking, or tackling. Each play ends when a player goes out of bounds or a defender pulls a flag from the ball carrier’s belt.
Pierre Trochet, president of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), highlighted the sport’s impressive global growth. “The sport had already experienced tremendous growth long before it was included in the Olympics.” The efforts of the 74 IFAF member nations are paying off,” Trochet said.
According to the IFAF, over 20 million people in more than 100 countries now play flag football. The women’s side of the sport has seen significant growth, providing opportunities for girls who previously lacked access to tackle football. Girls now look up to Diana Flores and other flag football stars as role models. They see the chance to play on a big stage and even become Olympians,” Trochet added.
As the countdown to the Olympics continues, any woman hoping to shine in flag football will need to overcome the dominant American teams. “Competing in the Olympics is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.” I’m dedicated to earning my place on the team and proudly representing the red, white, and blue,” said U.S. quarterback Vanita Crouch.
