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 in Düsseldorf, Germany. The women sealed their perfect tournament with a 27-20 win against the Americans in the final, following their earlier 20-6 triumph over top-ranked Mexico in the semifinals.
Frederique Morneau made a significant impact with three touchdown catches for Canada, with quarterback Sara Parker connecting with Caroline Moquin-Joubert for another score. Parker, who threw a total of 23 touchdown passes, was honored as the most valuable player of the women’s tournament.
In a thrilling third-place game, the Canadian men secured their Olympic berth by defeating Mexico 34-26. Quarterback Michael O’Connor led the charge with 294 yards and five touchdowns, while former NFL tight end Antony Auclair contributed 149 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions. Daniel Petermann also scored twice, with James Drysdale adding another touchdown.
With both Canadian teams now set to compete in the 2028 Games, the top two teams from the flag events, excluding the host Americans, will join them in Los Angeles, where flag football will debut as an Olympic sport. Despite a loss to Italy in the men’s semifinals, Canada’s men’s team fought back in the third-place match to secure their spot in the Olympics.
Canada’s head coach, Paul LaPolice, expressed pride in the team’s achievements, highlighting the dedication and hard work that led to their success. He emphasized the significance of both the men’s and women’s teams qualifying for the Olympics as a testament to the growth and potential of Canadian flag football.
In the men’s final, the U.S. emerged victorious over Italy with a score of 42-26, rounding off an eventful and successful competition in Düsseldorf.