The Detroit Lions will play in a flag football event in London.

The Detroit Lions and the Global Growth of Flag Football

Flag football, a non-contact form of American football where players use flags to “tag” opponents instead of tackling them, has been gaining traction around the world. The NFL and various teams have invested heavily in growing the sport outside of the traditional American football markets. This includes promoting flag football at the grassroots level, where it serves as an introductory avenue for young athletes to get involved with football. For the Detroit Lions, this commitment to flag football aligns with their broader vision to increase the global appeal of American football and their franchise.

The Role of the NFL and International Expansion

The NFL has been a key player in the global expansion of American football, with events such as the NFL International Series, which includes games played in London, Mexico City, and other international venues. These games bring the NFL’s brand of football to fans around the world. But in addition to these high-profile games, the NFL has been working to build lasting relationships with international communities through local leagues, clinics, and flag football events. These efforts are aimed at growing the sport and creating pathways for young athletes to progress from flag football into tackle football as they develop their skills.

The Detroit Lions have embraced this initiative, recognizing that flag football provides a great opportunity to introduce young people, especially in countries where American football is not as popular, to the game. Flag football is accessible, safe, and easy to understand, making it an excellent starting point for the next generation of athletes.

Detroit Lions’ International Efforts

Expanding the Flag Football Landscape in Canada

While the United States remains the epicenter of American football, Canada has long had a strong connection to the sport, particularly through the CFL (Canadian Football League). However, in recent years, the sport of flag football has been making significant strides. The Detroit Lions’ partnership with Football Ontario in January 2025 underscores the team’s dedication to developing flag football in the Canadian market. This partnership is especially significant because it marks the Lions’ first formal venture into organizing competitive flag football tournaments outside the U.S.

By working with Football Ontario, the Lions are hoping to raise awareness of the benefits of flag football among young athletes, educators, and community leaders. The partnership involves a series of flag football events and tournaments that will take place in cities like Milton and London, Ontario, with the aim of cultivating a new generation of flag football players.

This initiative also includes collegiate flag football championships, which will allow university-level teams to compete and showcase their skills on a larger stage. The Lions hope that by focusing on both recreational and competitive play, they will inspire young athletes to pursue American football, either as a flag football player or as a potential future professional in the NFL.

Collaboration with the NFL Foundation UK

In addition to their efforts in Canada, the Detroit Lions have also engaged with the growing popularity of American football in the United Kingdom. The NFL Foundation UK, a nonprofit initiative that aims to increase participation in American football and flag football across the UK, has partnered with several teams to expand the reach of the sport.

One of the highlights of this international engagement was an October 2024 event attended by Prince William, who participated in a flag football activity alongside NFL representatives. The event, hosted in South London, was aimed at promoting the benefits of physical activity and sports engagement in youth communities. Prince William’s involvement underscored the growing recognition of flag football’s potential to engage young people in areas where access to traditional football might be limited.

The NFL Foundation UK has focused on bringing flag football to schools and youth leagues, particularly in underserved areas of London and other major cities. As the Detroit Lions have long been a community-centered franchise, their involvement in these efforts signals a broader commitment to not only growing the sport of flag football but also making it accessible to all children, regardless of their background or location.

Detroit Lions International Events

Another way the Detroit Lions connect with their international fanbase is through events in various global cities. While their primary fanbase remains in Detroit, the Lions have made an effort to broaden their reach by hosting events for fans in cities across North America and beyond.

For example, in December 2024, the Lions hosted a watch party in London, Ontario. This event attracted over 2,100 fans, showcasing the team’s ability to mobilize its Canadian supporters. The event featured appearances by the Lions’ mascot, the cheerleading squad, and even the drumline, creating an atmosphere that mirrored the excitement of a game at Ford Field. These kinds of fan events help the Lions establish deeper connections with supporters around the world, who may not have the opportunity to attend games in Detroit itself.

By bringing the energy of the game to international fans, the Detroit Lions are furthering their role as an ambassador for the sport. These events often include live music, giveaways, and opportunities for fans to interact with the team’s branding and merchandise. Moreover, these activities help to create a sense of community among international Lions fans, who are often far removed from the franchise’s home base.

The Broader Impact of Flag Football

Flag football is more than just a fun and accessible sport—it serves as a tool for personal development and community building. For young athletes, flag football offers numerous benefits. It helps improve physical fitness, promotes teamwork and communication, and provides an environment where young people can learn about leadership and perseverance. The sport is also highly inclusive, as it allows children of various skill levels and physical abilities to participate in a safe and supportive environment.

Flag football is a non-contact sport, which makes it a perfect entry point for children who may not be ready for the physical demands of tackle football. Because it places less strain on the body, flag football is seen as a safer option for young athletes, reducing the risk of injury while still teaching the fundamentals of American football. This is particularly important in regions like Europe, where American football is less familiar, and parents may be hesitant to introduce their children to tackle football due to concerns about safety.

By focusing on flag football, the Detroit Lions are also engaging with a broader audience of potential fans who may not have traditionally followed American football. This includes young girls and women, who have been key to the rapid growth of flag football in many regions, including the United States. In countries like the UK and Canada, flag football is particularly popular among young women and girls, providing a new avenue for them to engage with the sport.

The Future of Flag Football and the Detroit Lions

As flag football continues to grow in popularity, there are exciting possibilities for its future. The sport’s inclusion in major international competitions, such as the World Games and potentially the Olympics, could further elevate its status and increase its visibility on a global scale. Teams like the Detroit Lions will play an essential role in driving this movement, using their platforms to promote flag football as a gateway to American football and as a valuable standalone sport.

The Lions have made it clear that they see the future of American football as a global one. Through their flag football initiatives in Canada, the UK, and beyond, the team is not only investing in the growth of the sport but also solidifying its place as an ambassador of football culture worldwide. In the coming years, we can expect to see even more engagement from the Detroit Lions and other NFL teams in flag football events and community-building efforts across the globe.

While the Detroit Lions’ participation in a flag football event in London may not be officially confirmed yet, the team’s ongoing involvement in promoting the sport of flag football internationally suggests that such an event could be on the horizon. Through their partnerships, community outreach efforts, and international events, the Lions are helping to pave the way for a brighter future for flag football both in North America and around the world. With a growing global fan base, the Detroit Lions are playing a significant role in the international expansion of American football, ensuring that the sport remains relevant and accessible for generations to come.