Football Canada Welcomes the CFL’s Decision to Allow Players to Compete in 2028 Olympic Games 

Ottawa, ON – November 10, 2025 – Football Canada welcomes the Canadian Football League’s unanimous decision to allow its players to participate in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, marking a significant milestone for the continued growth of flag football in Canada and across the world. 

With flag football set to make its Olympic debut at LA28, this decision strengthens the collaborative relationship between the CFL, the CFL Players’ Association, the International Federation of American Football and Football Canada—the sport’s national governing body in Canada and IFAF’s official member federation. 

“This announcement marks a historic moment for football in Canada,” said Kevin McDonald, Executive Director of Football Canada. “Allowing CFL athletes to pursue the dream of representing their country at the Olympics will elevate the visibility of our sport and inspire the next generation of players across the country. We look forward to working closely with the CFL, the CFLPA, and IFAF to develop a framework that ensures the best Canadian talent, at both the professional and amateur levels, can compete for a chance to represent the Maple Leaf in Los Angeles.” 

At the 2025 IFAF Americas Continental Championship in Panama, Canada’s Senior Men’s Flag National Team earned a bronze medal, while both the men’s and women’s national teams secured qualification for the 2026 IFAF World Championships in Germany, a key step toward Olympic qualification.  

“The CFL’s decision reinforces Canada’s leadership in the global development of flag football,” added McDonald. “It’s a powerful statement of unity and shared purpose within our football community.” 

Football Canada will continue to work with IFAF, the Canadian Olympic Committee, and its domestic partners to advance the pathway for Canadian athletes as preparations for LA28 progress. 

Media Contact: 

Braydon Stachel 
Marketing and Communications Manager 
Football Canada 
BStachel@FootballCanada.com