Flag Football at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics: Everything You Need to Know

14th, Dec 2024

The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will mark a historic moment for American football as flag football makes its debut on the Olympic stage. This exciting addition promises to bring a new level of energy and excitement to the Games. Let's dive into what we know so far about flag football at LA 2028, including exclusive insights from Pierre Trochet, president of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF).

Tournament Format and Teams

Pierre Trochet confirmed in an interview with FrancsJeux that the flag football tournament will feature:

Six teams in both men's and women's categories
A competition lasting between 5 and 7 days

This format ensures gender equality and allows for representation from multiple continents, promoting the global nature of the sport.

Qualification Process

While the exact qualification system is not yet finalized, Trochet outlined that:

All continents will have the same opportunity to qualify a team
The process will consider the 2026 world rankings and 2027 continental championships
It's still undecided if the U.S. team will automatically qualify as the host country

The Basics of Olympic Flag Football

Flag football at the 2028 Olympics will feature:

Five players per team on the field
A 70-yard by 25-yard playing field (approximately 64m x 23m)
Two 20-minute halves
Non-contact gameplay with flags instead of tackles

Venue and Facilities

Trochet highlighted the flexibility of flag football, stating:

The competition site hasn't been decided yet
It could be a temporary or permanent venue
Flag football can be played almost anywhere, requiring only a 70m by 50m field without goalposts
They may use the facilities of LA's NFL franchises, the Rams and Chargers, for preparation and training

Potential Star Power

One of the most intriguing aspects is the potential involvement of NFL players:

The NFL has shown strong support for the sport's inclusion
Participation of NFL players hasn't been officially confirmed, but signals are very positive
Players like Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins have expressed interest

Global Competition

While the United States is currently ranked first in both men's and women's flag football, other nations are emerging as strong contenders:

Mexico, ranked second globally in both categories
Germany, Japan, and Canada showing promise

Special Equipment: Wilson's Olympic Flag Football

Adding to the excitement, Wilson has produced a special ball specifically for flag football. The TDY-sized ball is designed to enhance the game's speed and precision, catering to the unique demands of the sport.

Innovations in Presentation

Trochet emphasized the IFAF's commitment to innovation:

They aim to create a novel experience for both in-stadium spectators and television viewers
IFAF is working with LA 2028 organizers to innovate how the sport is presented and shown

Looking Beyond 2028

The IFAF is already working to secure flag football's place in future Olympic Games, to remain in the program for Brisbane 2032 and beyond.Flag football's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics represents a significant milestone for the sport and American football. With its fast-paced action, accessibility, and potential star power, flag football is poised to become a highlight of the Olympic program. As Pierre Trochet stated, the success of the Games will be tied to showcasing the best players in the world and offering a new and exciting experience for spectators. As we countdown to LA 2028, the world eagerly anticipates this thrilling addition to the Olympic family.