As the curtain falls on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, a new chapter in the history of American Football begins. BAFA is proud to be part of this journey as we look ahead to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, where the global representation of our sport will take centre stage.
Last October, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) made the ground-breaking announcement that Flag Football will be included in the 2028 Summer Olympic Games – a decision that marked a historic moment for the sport and the global Flag Football community. The inclusion of flag football in the Olympics places it on the world’s largest stage, setting the scene for unprecedented growth and recognition.
BAFA CEO Chad Ehlertsen said: “The inclusion of flag football in the Olympic Games will not only elevate the sport to new heights but also inspire a new generation of athletes both here in Great Britain and worldwide. British American Football stands united with the NFL and the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) in their mission to ensure Flag Football remains a fixture in the Olympic programme for years to come. The journey to LA28 has begun, and we are excited to witness the bright future of our sport unfold on the world’s biggest stage.”
NFL and IFAF have launched the “Light it Up” campaign – which has been devised to build excitement for the future of our sport and to celebrate Flag Football’s upcoming debut on the Olympic stage. Reminiscent of the iconic moment at the Barcelona 1992 Games, where an archer lit the Olympic torch with a flaming arrow, the “Light it Up” film features global Flag ambassador Jalen Hurts. In a powerful display of unity and anticipation, Hurts ignites the torch at the LA Coliseum with a flaming football, symbolising the bright future of American Football at the Olympics.
With over 20 million athletes across more than 100 countries playing the sport, Flag is one of the world’s fastest-growing sports disciplines. Its inclusive nature, welcoming players of all ages and genders, has been a key factor in its rapid expansion, particularly among women and girls.
“The Olympics represent the pinnacle of global sport, and having Flag Football featured at the LA28 Olympics is a momentous achievement. This milestone will undoubtedly accelerate the global growth of the game, encouraging more young people from all corners of the world to take up the sport. We at BAFA will rise to this challenge by developing our elite athletes and seeking to use this momentum as a catalyst to grow the game at all levels across the country,” added Chad.
