The prospect of GB Flag Football teams appearing at the Olympic Games came one step closer this week when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) gave the green light for the sport to be considered for the Los Angeles summer games in 2028.
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) notified BAFA and other National Federations of the development earlier this week. The final decision will be made by the IOC session in Mumbai this October.
BAFA Chief Executive Pete Ackerley welcomed the news and feels steps are in place to ensure that Great Britain is in a position to send a competitive team in 2028.
“Our over-arching priority is developing all forms of American Football in this country – and we know that Flag has so much untapped potential for growth. We now have a great opportunity to build and promote the game. It would be a tremendous motivator for our young players coming through to have the opportunity to represent their nation at the Olympics. We are optimistic that the IOC will approve Flag Football as an Olympic Sport and also that we will be able to deliver a team strong enough to qualify for the tournament.
“BAFA is committed to grow the game through raising awareness and boosting access to playing opportunities for boys and girls . We are working more closely than ever with NFL-UK to fulfil this shared vision.”
