Flag Football

First offered as a sport in 2010 at the USA Games in Nebraska, flag football has since taken off in popularity to become not only a staple sport for all subsequent USA Games, but one of the fastest growing sports as well! Modeled after American football, the key difference between traditional American football and flag football is the method of stopping the ball carrier. In traditional football, players tackle the ball carrier, while in flag football, they remove a flag from their flag belt. This non-contact nature reduces the risk of injury and makes it more accessible. More than 38,000 athletes and Unified partners train and compete in flag football each year. At the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, we anticipate to host traditional and Unified 5v5 competitions.

How It’s Played:
Flag football is a dynamic team sport played on a rectangular field outdoors. Teams, typically composed of five players each, aim to score touchdowns by advancing the ball into the opposing team’s end zone while defenders try to pull the ball carrier’s flags from their belts. Unlike traditional football, there’s no tackling. Instead, players use speed and agility to avoid having their flags pulled. Passing, catching, and running are key skills, emphasizing teamwork and strategy. Starting at their own 5-yard line, offenses have four “downs” to cross midfield and gain four more to score. Failing results in a turnover, with the opposing team starting from their 5-yard line, maintaining fast-paced gameplay and strategic tension. Games are divided into halves or quarters, with the team accumulating the most points declared the winner. Flag football promotes camaraderie and sportsmanship, making it a popular choice for players of all ages and skill levels.