JOHANNESBURG - Flag football is breaking barriers, and Africa is officially in the game.

For the first time, the International Federation of American Football is organising an African Flag Football tournament, giving the continent a fair shot on the world stage.

The two-day event kicks off on June 20th in Cairo, with more at stake than just bragging rights.

It is a stepping stone to the 2026 World Championships, and ultimately, the sport’s Olympic debut at the 2028 games in Los Angeles.

Flag football is a fast, non-contact sport, and is more accessible, especially with the expansion of NFL youth programmes across Africa, tapping into a whole new wave of talent.

A South African team will be taking part, with IFAF stating that the tournament is only the beginning.

The group has a long-term goal of Olympic inclusion and additional continental competitions.

To unpack this further, we are joined by the President of Gridiron South Africa, Stephen Radebe.