Flag Football at the Olympics

Flag Football is a limited-contact version of American football. Instead of physical tackles, players are caught by removing one of three 'flags' that are attached to a fabric belt on each player's waist. The sport will make its Olympic Games debut at the 2028 LA Olympic Games.

Flag Football gameFlag Football game

It won't be the first time that a version of American football has been part of the Olympic Games. American Football was played as a demonstration at the Olympic Games in 1904 in St. Louis and again in 1932 in Los Angeles.

2028 Olympic Flag Football

The details of the tournament and playing rules will not be finalized until closer to the date. It is expected that games for men and women will take place on a 50-yard field in a 5-on-5 format, and won't feature offensive or defensive lines. Games are 40 minutes duration (two 20 minute halves). See more about the sport of Flag Football.

In a boost to the sport, the NFL announced in 2025 that players will be available to play flag football at the Olympics.

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Olympics Extra

The next Olympics will be in LA 2028, the next Winter edition in Milan-Cortina 2026. Check out the list of Olympic Games sports, as well as discontinued and demonstration sports.

Major Events Extra

The largest sporting event in the world is the Olympic Games, but there are many other multi-sport games. In terms of single sport events, nothing beats the FIFA World Cup. To see what's coming up, check out the calendar of major sporting events.

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