Super Bowl week in San Francisco next month will be a showcase for more than just the NFL’s biggest game—it will feature two marquee flag football contests, signaling the sport’s rapid rise in popularity.
This increased exposure comes as flag football prepares for its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, a milestone that’s already electrifying the sport.
The NFL’s Pro Bowl week will kick off with elite players taking the field on February 3. Two days later, a separate exhibition match will pit the United States team against Mexico, offering a preview of potential Olympic rivalries.
Flag Football’s Olympic Push Gains Momentum
The upcoming games are part of a broader effort to build competitive teams for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The potential roster for the Los Angeles Games could be a dynamic mix of current and former NFL players alongside dedicated flag football specialists. USA Football, the sport’s national governing body, will be responsible for selecting and rigorously training both the men’s and women’s teams.
“The opportunity for NFL players to join our elite talent pipeline heading to the LA28 Olympic Games is exciting for players and fans alike,” USA Football CEO Scott Hallenbeck said in a statement released Tuesday.
The exhibition game will be streamed live on the NFL’s YouTube channel, further expanding the sport’s reach.
“We have one goal for the Olympic Games, and that is to win the men’s and women’s gold medals. The support and interest of elite athletes from around the sporting world only strengthens our chances of success as we seek to build the best teams possible,” Hallenbeck added.
A New Era for the Pro Bowl
The NFL’s move to host the Pro Bowl during Super Bowl week marks the latest evolution for the all-star event. Three years ago, the Pro Bowl transitioned to a flag football format, a change that reflects the growing appeal of the non-contact version of the game. Flag football was officially added to the Olympic program in October 2023.
For Team USA, the exhibition against Mexico isn’t just a friendly—it’s a chance to test their skills and build momentum. The gold medal match between the two nations at the IFAF Americas Continental Championships in Panama last September was unfortunately canceled due to inclement weather.
So, this game offers an unofficial opportunity to settle the score.
“This matchup was already necessary. Our guys want it, and I’m sure the Mexican team does too,” said quarterback Darrell “Housh” Doucette III. “We plan to approach this exhibition with the same preparation and intensity as a regular game. This is a dream opportunity to showcase the sport we all love while being at the center of football’s biggest stage.”
Mexico’s players share the same competitive spirit.
“This opportunity that both teams are going to have is incredible. Playing in a final is something we have always dreamed of,” said Ramón Alonso Gaxiola, defender and captain of Mexico.
The game, sponsored by Toyota, will be played at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, which is also hosting the Super Bowl Experience Fan Festival.
“The Olympic announcement in 2023 was fuel for a sport that was already gaining popularity, and with the leadership and support of the league through opportunities like this exhibition, we will further ignite passion, participation and fanaticism,” Hallenbeck said.
