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 a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics during the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championships in Düsseldorf, Germany. The women’s team, already having secured their place with a 20-6 win over Mexico in the semifinals, concluded a flawless tournament with a 27-20 triumph over the Americans in the final.
Frederique Morneau was instrumental with three touchdown receptions for Canada, with quarterback Sara Parker connecting with Caroline Moquin-Joubert for another crucial score. Parker, who amassed a total of 23 touchdown passes, was honored as the most valuable player of the women’s tournament.
In a nail-biting finish, the Canadians clinched the gold medal with a narrow 27-20 victory over the United States. The Canadian men’s team also earned their ticket to the 2028 Games after defeating Mexico 34-26 in the third-place match on Sunday. Quarterback Michael O’Connor led the charge with an impressive 294 yards and five touchdowns, with former NFL tight-end Antony Auclair contributing significantly with 149 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions. Daniel Petermann and James Drysdale also found the end zone to seal the win.
The top two teams from each flag football event, excluding the host Americans, secured berths for the Los Angeles Olympics, where flag football will debut. Despite a loss to Italy in the men’s semifinals, Canada’s third-place finish became crucial as the American men advanced to the final, setting up a showdown for an Olympic qualification spot.
Head coach Paul LaPolice expressed his pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing the hard work and dedication that led to their Olympic qualification. LaPolice also highlighted the significance of both the men’s and women’s teams qualifying together, signaling a promising future for Canadian flag football.
In the men’s final, the U.S emerged victorious over Italy with a 42-26 scoreline.