Canada’s women’s flag football team emerged victorious over the United States to claim the world title, while the men’s team secured a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics during the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championships held in Düsseldorf, Germany. The women’s team, having already secured a spot with a 20-6 win against top-ranked Mexico in the semifinals, concluded a flawless tournament with a 27-20 triumph over the American team in the final match.
Frederique Morneau shined with three touchdown receptions for Canada, while quarterback Sara Parker connected with Caroline Moquin-Joubert for another score. Parker, with a total of 23 touchdown passes, earned the title of the women’s tournament’s most valuable player.
The Canadian men’s team will be heading to the 2028 Olympics alongside the women’s team after defeating Mexico 34-26 in the third-place match. Quarterback Michael O’Connor led the charge with 294 yards and five touchdowns, with former NFL tight-end Antony Auclair contributing significantly with 149 receiving yards and two touchdown catches from O’Connor. Daniel Petermann and James Drysdale also scored for the team.
Both the men’s and women’s teams secured spots at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with flag football making its Olympic debut. The top two teams from each flag event, excluding the host Americans, qualified for the prestigious event. Despite a loss to Italy in the men’s semifinals, the Canadian team’s victory in the third-place game against Mexico secured their Olympic berth.
Head coach Paul LaPolice expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, emphasizing the hard work and dedication that led to their success. This dual qualification for the Olympics showcases the promising future of Canadian flag football, LaPolice added.
In the men’s final, the U.S team emerged victorious over Italy with a score of 42-26, concluding the championship event.
