Canada’s women’s flag football team secured the world title by defeating the United States at the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championships in Düsseldorf, Germany. The men’s team also earned a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The women’s team, who had previously beaten top-ranked Mexico in the semifinals, clinched a flawless tournament with a 27-20 victory over the U.S. Frederique Morneau stood out with three touchdown catches, and quarterback Sara Parker connected with Caroline Moquin-Joubert for another score. Parker, with 23 total touchdown passes, was named the women’s tournament MVP.
In the men’s third-place game, Canada triumphed over Mexico 34-26, securing their place at the upcoming Olympics. Quarterback Michael O’Connor led the team with 294 yards and five touchdowns, while former NFL tight end Antony Auclair contributed 149 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions. Daniel Petermann scored twice, and James Drysdale added another touchdown.
Both Canadian flag football teams will compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, as they emerged victorious in their respective matches. The top two teams from each event, excluding the host country, qualified for the Olympics, where flag football will debut. Despite a loss to Italy in the men’s semifinals, Canada’s men’s team secured their Olympic berth by defeating Mexico.
Head coach Paul LaPolice commended the team’s hard work and dedication, emphasizing that qualifying for the Olympics was a significant achievement. He expressed pride in the athletes’ performance and highlighted the promising future of Canadian flag football. In the men’s final, the U.S. claimed victory over Italy with a score of 42-26.