Canadian women’s flag football team punches ticket to Olympics

The Canadian women’s flag football team has qualified for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Canada defeated Mexico 20-6 in the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship semifinal Saturday.

“I am so proud of this team,” said Canadian team head coach Rachel Lessard in a statement. “Qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games is a reflection of the discipline, resilience and trust this team has built over the course of this process, and they’ve earned every bit of this opportunity at the 2026 IFAF Flag Football world championships.

“Canadian flag football is on the rise, and we’re honoured to officially be able to help carry that momentum to the 2028 Olympic Games.”

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The top-two finishers in the men’s and women’s world championships qualify for 2028 when flag football makes its Olympic debut. If the United States, already qualified as host, reaches either final, the top-three finishers qualify.

Canada’s women beat Austria 40-12 in an earlier quarterfinal. The Canadians will meet the United States for the women’s world title.

Canada edged the U.S. 34-33 at the USA Football Summer Series on June 19.

“This is an incredible moment for our women’s flag football team and everyone who has supported them along the way,” said Eva Havaris, Football Canada’s chief executive officer. ”This group worked incredibly hard for this moment, delivered an outstanding performance and it goes without saying that they’ve earned it.

“We’re thrilled to see them officially secure their place on the Olympic stage, and we can’t wait to see what they do in Los Angeles.”

The Canadian men defeated American Samoa 24-14 in the quarterfinals Saturday to advance and meet Italy in the semifinals.