Nairobi: The National Football League (NFL) recently concluded the 2026 NFL Flag Africa Continental Championship in Nairobi, where Nigeria emerged victorious in the women’s category and Egypt claimed the men’s title. The event, organized in collaboration with the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), adhered to the international rules of flag football. Additionally, Nigeria’s youth team secured the NFL Flag Africa Continental Youth title.
According to African Press Organization, this championship represents a significant achievement in the ongoing development of flag football in Africa, especially with the sport set to debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Over the course of three days, athletes from five nations competed fiercely for continental titles. Nigeria triumphed over Egypt in the women’s championship, while Egypt narrowly defeated Nigeria in the men’s category. In the youth division, Nigeria bested Ghana to take the title. South Africa secured bronze medals in both the men’s and youth competitions, and Kenya, the host nation, earned bronze in the women’s category.
Beyond the competition, the championship provided a platform for the growth of flag football and American football in Africa. The event featured youth training activities, educational programs for coaches and officials, and a workshop aimed at identifying elite talent through the NFL Africa program. This initiative underlines the league’s long-term commitment to enhancing participation, strengthening sports infrastructure, and creating opportunities for athletes across the continent.
Brian Flinn, NFL Senior Vice President of Global Flag Football, emphasized the significance of the NFL Flag Africa Continental Championship in reflecting the global growth of flag football. He noted that events like these bolster the sport’s foundations and offer meaningful opportunities for athletes as flag football gains momentum ahead of its Olympic debut in Los Angeles.
Pierre Trochet, President of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), expressed his delight at supporting the championship, which showcased the growth and competitiveness of flag football in Africa. He congratulated all the athletes, coaches, and national federations involved, highlighting the IFAF and NFL’s joint efforts to expand opportunities for athletes to compete, develop, and represent their countries, thereby strengthening flag football across the continent.