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Team Kenya impresses in inaugural NFL Flag African Championship
11th July, 2026 09:42 PM
The competitive phase of the inaugural NFL FLAG Africa Championship concluded on Friday, July 11, 2026, in Nairobi, at Nyayo National Stadium, as Kenya’s men’s and women’s teams posted impressive results.
The men’s team finished in fourth place after losing the third-place playoff to South Africa as the women’s counterparts managed a podium finish.
Egypt and Nigeria emerged as the continental champions following an exciting day of finals.
Egypt claimed the men’s championship title with a 12–6 victory over Nigeria, while South Africa secured the bronze medal after defeating hosts Kenya 19–13. In the women’s division, Nigeria were crowned champions following a 27–18 win over Egypt, with Kenya earning the bronze medal after overcoming Ghana 18–6.
Trophy ceremony
The championship featured a medal and trophy ceremony attended by NFL Africa Ambassador and two-time Super Bowl champion Osi Umenyiora; Joshua Weru, the first Kenyan and East African athlete to sign with an NFL franchise when he joined the Philadelphia Eagles, NFL International Flag Football Lead Afia Law; and senior representatives from the Government of Kenya and the Kenyan sporting community.
The event ultimately concludes with the NFL FLAG Talent ID program, where athletes participate in a series of drills and skills sessions designed to showcase their athletic ability as part of the NFL Africa program.
Build up to 2028 Olympics
The tournament was organised by the NFL, the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), and the Kenyan Federation of American Football (KFAF) and supports athlete development and creates pathways for emerging talent to continue progressing within sport.
Sports Kenya Director General Timothy Kilimo, US Embassy to Kenya Susan M Burns, and NOCK officials were among the high delegation that graced the occasion
The NFL FLAG Africa championship brought together athletes, coaches, and officials from across the continent, marking a major step as flag football is scheduled to make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
