Nairobi: Nigeria and Egypt emerged victorious in the 2026 NFL Flag Africa Continental Championship held in Nairobi, clinching the women's and men's titles respectively. The event was organized in consultation with the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) and adhered to international flag football rules. Nigeria also secured the NFL Flag Africa Continental Youth title.
According to African Press Organization, this championship represents a significant milestone in the growth of flag football in Africa, preceding the sport's debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Over three days, athletes from five nations competed for continental titles, participating in an event that united national federations, coaches, officials, and young athletes from the region. Nigeria triumphed over Egypt in the women's championship, while Egypt narrowly defeated Nigeria in the men's category. Nigeria's youth team claimed victory over Ghana for the youth title. South Africa secured bronze medals in both the men's and youth divisions, and the host nation, Kenya, earned bronze in the women's competition.
Beyond the competition, the championship was a platform for the development of flag football and American football in Africa. The event featured youth training activities, educational programs for coaches and officials, and a talent identification workshop through the NFL Africa program. This initiative underscores the league's commitment to increasing participation, strengthening sports infrastructure, and creating opportunities for athletes across the continent.
Brian Flinn, NFL Senior Vice President of Global Flag Football, remarked on the global growth of flag football, noting the significance of events like this in strengthening the sport's foundations and creating opportunities for athletes as the sport prepares for its Olympic debut in Los Angeles 2028.
Pierre Trochet, President of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), expressed delight in supporting the 2026 NFL Flag Africa Continental Championship, which showcased the growth and competitiveness of flag football in Africa. He congratulated the athletes, coaches, and national federations for their contributions to the championship's success, emphasizing the IFAF and NFL's ongoing efforts to expand athletes' opportunities and strengthen flag football on the continent.