With flag football officially set to debut at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, countries around the world are accelerating efforts to build elite national teams. Governed by the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) and endorsed by the NFL, the sport's rapid international growth is now focused on one goal: earning a spot at the Olympics.
As of mid-2025, more than 70 countries are part of IFAF and eligible to compete in Olympic qualification events. Here's a factual breakdown of the current global landscape:
United States
Status: Qualified as Host Nation
As the birthplace of flag football and host of the 2028 Olympics, the U.S. men's and women's teams will receive automatic qualification.
- Team USA Women won gold at the 2021 IFAF World Championships and are heavily favored again.
- The NFL is directly supporting development, running NFL FLAG programs in over 15 countries.
Mexico
Status: Global Powerhouse
Mexico is arguably the top contender outside of the U.S.
- Women's Team: Won gold at the 2022 World Games, defeating the U.S.
- Men's Team: Consistently finishes in the top 4 internationally
- Mexico's national flag league (FMFA) is one of the most developed in the world.
Italy
Status: Top European Contender
- Italy hosted the 2024 IFAF Flag Football World Championships and performed strongly.
- Deep grassroots programs and growing youth development, with increased funding tied to Olympic prep.
Japan
Status: Asian Leader
- Strong showings in recent IFAF tournaments
- Backed by corporate partnerships and government support leading into LA28
- Known for disciplined, high-IQ play and elite female talent
France
Status: On the Rise
- Hosts of the 2024 Olympics (flag football not included), but growing the sport rapidly through the Federation Francaise de Football Americain (FFFA)
- Participated in the 2024 World Championships with improved performance
- One of Europe's best-run flag football systems
Brazil
Status: Fast-Growing in South America
- Competing in both men's and women's IFAF World Championships
- Flag football included in Brazil's school and university sport structure
- Supported by local American football clubs and increased NFL visibility
With just over three years until opening ceremonies, the sprint to Olympic flag football is on. The countries that combine organizational support, athlete development, and international competition experience will be the ones representing their flags in Los Angeles.
Flag football may be new to the Olympics-but its global momentum is real, and growing fast.