In a landmark decision for the sport, the National Football League (NFL) has officially approved the participation of its players in flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The announcement was made on May 20 during the league’s Spring Meeting.
According to the new rule, each NFL team can nominate one player, along with one international player if eligible, to represent their country at the Olympic Games. This move sets the stage for some of football’s biggest stars to compete on the world’s most prestigious athletic platform.
Global Growth for the NFL
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell welcomed the development as a major step toward growing the sport internationally.
“This news represents a great opportunity for the sport and for the NFL,” said Goodell. “This is a big step in making football a global sport for men and women of all ages.”
The league has been investing in flag football for years, using it in youth outreach and at events like the Pro Bowl Games, where it has been embraced by fans and players alike.
Olympic Debut for Flag Football
Flag football will officially make its Olympic debut at LA28 with six men’s and six women’s national teams, each featuring 10 players. The competition will follow a fast-paced five-on-five format, designed to showcase athleticism and strategy.
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) expressed excitement about the NFL’s involvement. IFAF President Pierre Trochet said the move adds depth to the Olympic debut and praised the NFL’s ongoing support.
“This promises to be a game-changing debut for flag football,” Trochet stated. “The NFL’s global stars now have the chance to shine on the world stage.”
Trochet added that 75 national federations under IFAF appreciate the league’s commitment and will work together to ensure flag football becomes a key highlight of the LA28 Games.
Widespread Support
The decision also earned praise from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which applauded the NFL and its leadership for opening the door to elite participation.
“This landmark decision will allow for the participation of the best American football players in the world at the Olympic Games,” the IOC said in a statement.
NFL players have already shown strong interest in taking part in the Olympics, eager for the rare chance to call themselves Olympians.
Looking Ahead to LA28
As the countdown to Los Angeles 2028 begins, the excitement is already building. The inclusion of NFL players is expected to raise the profile of flag football and attract global audiences.
“The 2028 Flag Football tournament will be one of the most exciting competitions in Olympic history,” said LA28 Chairperson Casey Wasserman. “We’re thankful for the support from the NFL, its clubs, and its players.”
The NFL, IFAF, IOC, and LA28 Organizing Committee are now working closely to ensure the tournament is a major success and a turning point for the sport’s future.
Related topics:
- ‘Authentic ACC: Syracuse Spring Football’ Premieres Thursday on ACC Network
- Panthers Announce 2025 Schedule with Six Home Games Under New Coach Stepsis
- USA Football Unveils National Flag Teams as NFL Debates Olympic Involvement
