Spain’s women’s flag football team seeks Olympic spot as NFL helps boost the sport

Spain's women's flag football team aims to earn an Olympic berth as the NFL aids in promoting the sport. Billed as a major development, the NFL has invested resources into boosting flag football both in the United States and internationally. The Cincinnati Bengals will play the Atlanta Falcons at Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu Stadium this Sunday, marking the NFL's second regular-season game in Spain.

Spain's national team, currently ranked seventh globally, has been seeking to establish itself among elite competitors in women's flag football, having been consistently a top 10 contender in Europe. The NFL's efforts, including school programs and youth competitions, have contributed to the sport's growing prominence. Spain aims to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with the top two eligible teams advancing to the Olympic Q-Series in June 2028 to determine the remaining three women's berths.

The team's captain, Olga Sotillo, emphasized the importance of the NFL's support in raising the sport's profile.