Key Takeaways
- iFlag’s Tampa World Championships drew 11,779 athletes, earning a Guinness World Record for the largest flag football tournament ever held
- Participants traveled from across the U.S. and international markets including Canada, Mexico, and Europe
- CBS Sports Network broadcast the event nationally, expanding flag football’s visibility ahead of its 2028 Olympic debut
- The tournament included youth, recreational, and competitive adult divisions
Record-Setting Turnout in Tampa
iFlag has officially claimed the Guinness World Record for hosting the largest flag football tournament in history. The Tampa World Championships, held at Tampa’s Sportsplex, brought together 11,779 athletes across multiple divisions.
The event drew participants from youth leagues, recreational programs, and competitive adult teams. Athletes traveled from across the United States as well as Canada, Mexico, and Europe, reflecting the sport’s expanding international footprint.
Guinness World Records acknowledged the achievement, stating, “The scale and enthusiasm witnessed in Tampa demonstrate the sport’s growing significance and the community’s extraordinary passion.”
National Broadcast Expands Reach
CBS Sports Network carried the Tampa World Championships, marking a significant distribution milestone for competitive flag football. The national broadcast introduced the sport’s gameplay to a wider audience beyond traditional youth sports channels.
For iFlag, the media exposure aligns with broader momentum around flag football. The sport is set to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, a development that has increased attention from broadcasters, brands, and athletic organizations.
What the Record Reflects
The nearly 12,000-athlete turnout provides a data point for flag football’s growth trajectory. iFlag positions the sport as an accessible alternative to tackle football, with programming designed to serve players across age groups and skill levels.
The organization operates tournaments and development programs aimed at expanding structured flag football opportunities. The Tampa event included divisions for youth, recreational adults, and competitive players, a format designed to accommodate broad participation.
With Olympic inclusion on the horizon, events like the Tampa World Championships offer a preview of flag football’s potential to attract large-scale participation and media attention. The Guinness recognition adds a verified benchmark to the sport’s growth narrative.
via: iFlag
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