Canada is aiming to secure spots in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as flag football makes its Olympic debut. At the ongoing world championships in Germany, countries are vying for two spots each in the men’s and women’s tournaments, which will consist of six teams. The United States, a dominant force in flag football, automatically qualifies as the host. The remaining spots will be determined through a two-stage qualifier in June 2028, starting in Montreal.
While the world championships do not guarantee an Olympic berth, teams are eager to secure a spot early and avoid the pressure of the last-chance qualifier in the following years.
In the preliminary round, sixteen teams in both men’s and women’s tournaments were divided into groups of four. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage, which begins on Saturday. The medal matches on Sunday will determine the world champions and the Olympic qualifiers.
Canada’s women’s team, currently ranked fourth globally, will face Panama, Brazil, and Japan in the group stage. The men’s team, ranked 10th, will compete against Austria, Japan, and received a free win due to Nigeria’s withdrawal.
Notable players in the Canadian squads include former NFL tight end Antony Auclair and CFL player Marc-Antoine Dequoy for the men, and veteran defensive back Sabrina Gervais and quarterback Sarah Parker for the women.
The flag football world championships are broadcast live on CBC Gem and the CBC Sports website. Viewers can catch the action starting at 2 a.m. ET on Thursday.
