The Canadian women’s flag football team has secured their spot in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles after defeating Mexico 20-6 in a semifinal match at the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship in Duesseldorf, Germany. Head coach Rachel Lessard expressed her pride in the team’s discipline, resilience, and trust that led them to this achievement. The growing prominence of Canadian flag football is acknowledged, with the team excited to carry this momentum to the upcoming Olympic Games.
As part of the qualification process, the top two countries from both the men’s and women’s world championships earn spots for the 2028 Olympics, with an additional opportunity for the top three finishers if the United States, as the host, reaches the final. The Canadian women are set to face the U.S. in the world championship final, while Mexico and Britain will compete for the remaining women’s Olympic berth in the bronze-medal game.
In the men’s category, Canada faced a setback with a 41-36 loss to Italy in the semifinals. However, they still have a chance to secure an early Olympic qualification in the bronze-medal match against Mexico. The U.S. and Italy will battle for the men’s gold at the world championship.
Beyond this tournament, countries can also earn spots for the Los Angeles Olympics through continental championships next year and a subsequent qualifying series. Notable performances from players like Sara Parker, Silvia Contreras, and Caroline Moquin-Joubert contributed to Canada’s success in the recent matches. Football Canada’s CEO, Eva Havaris, commended the team’s hard work and outstanding performance, expressing excitement about their upcoming Olympic journey.