The Canadian women’s flag football team has secured a spot in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles after defeating Mexico 20-6 in an International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship semifinal held in Duesseldorf, Germany. Head coach Rachel Lessard expressed her pride in the team’s discipline, resilience, and trust that led to this achievement.
Canada’s success in the world championships has propelled the country to the Olympic stage for the first time in flag football. The top two countries from both the men’s and women’s world championships automatically qualify for the 2028 Olympics, with a potential third spot available if the United States, as the host nation, advances to the finals.
The Canadian women will 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 match. Additionally, Canada’s men will have a chance to secure an early Olympic ticket in the bronze-medal match against Mexico after a 41-36 loss to Italy in the semifinals.
The women’s team’s outstanding performance, led by players like Sara Parker, Silvia Contreras, and Caroline Moquin-Joubert, has garnered praise from Football Canada’s CEO Eva Havaris. The team’s hard work and dedication have paid off, earning them a well-deserved spot on the Olympic stage in Los Angeles.
Looking ahead, countries can continue to qualify for the 2028 Olympics through continental championships and upcoming qualifying series. Canada’s success in the world championships and their victory over the U.S. at the USA Football Summer Series highlight the team’s growing prowess in flag football.
As the journey towards the 2028 Olympics progresses, the Canadian flag football teams, both men and women, are poised to make a mark on the international stage and showcase their talent at the highest level of competition.