Canada’s women’s flag football team emerged victorious against the United States to claim the world championship title, while the men’s team secured their spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics during the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championships in Düsseldorf, Germany. The women’s team, after defeating top-ranked Mexico 20-6 in the semifinals, sealed a flawless tournament by defeating the Americans 27-20 in the final.
Frederique Morneau played a pivotal role 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, was honored as the most valuable player of the women’s tournament.
In a thrilling game that was decided on the final play, Canada clinched the gold medal by outlasting the United States 27-20. The Canadian men also secured a place at the 2028 Olympics after triumphing over 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 149 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Daniel Petermann and James Drysdale also found the end zone for Canada.
The top two teams from both flag football events, excluding the host Americans, qualified for the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics, where flag football will debut as an Olympic sport. Despite a loss to Italy in the men’s semifinals, Canada’s path to the Olympics was solidified in the third-place game as the American men advanced to the final.
Canada’s head coach, Paul LaPolice, expressed his pride in the team’s achievement, emphasizing the hard work and dedication that led to Olympic qualification. The U.S secured victory over Italy in the men’s final, capping off an eventful championship.
