American football, played internationally, outside of the United States and Canada, is the focus of this part of our web guide.
Although Canada has its own brand of gridiron football, American football is also played in Canada. Despite a strong fan base, Canada does not have its own NFL team.
There are more similarities than differences between American and Canadian football. Still, some key differences differentiate the two sports, most notably the field size, the number of players on the field, the number of downs, and the end zone. While Canadian football is the most popular version of the sport in Canada, American football also has a large fanbase.
American football, a sport ingrained in American culture, surpassed baseball as America's favorite pastime in the late 1990s and has grown since.
Over the years, the sport has transcended its national boundaries to make inroads in various countries around the world.
In European countries like Germany, the United Kingdom, and France, community-based American football leagues have flourished. The German Football League (GFL) is one of the most prominent, featuring teams from several cities and towns. The X-League in Japan is another example; its American football teams are often sponsored by corporations and have strong ties to local communities.
American football is a popular sport in Mexican universities, with the Organización Nacional Estudiantil de Fútbol Americano (ONEFA) league being a key platform for college-level competition. The sport is also played at the high school level, contributing to its growth and popularity. Some European countries have also integrated American football into their school sports programs, although it is less widespread than in America.
The Gridiron Australia operates as an amateur league, providing opportunities for players to compete at a high level while maintaining amateur status. The league includes teams from various Australian states and territories. The Brasil Futebol Americano (BFA) is another example of an amateur league that has gained traction outside the United States, with teams across Brazil participating in competitive play.
The European League of Football (ELF) is a relatively new professional league that has elevated American football's profile in Europe. It features teams from multiple countries, including Germany, Spain, and Poland. The X-League in Japan also operates professionally, with some players receiving compensation for their participation.
Additionally, the NFL participates in overseas play. In the 2025 season, it is anticipated that the NFL will play up to eight regular-season games in foreign countries, including Brazil, England, and Germany, and to double that number in future years. This will further the exposure of American football overseas.
Topics related to American football play overseas, at any level, are appropriate topics for this category.
Recommended Resources
American Football International
AFI is an online platform dedicated to bringing the latest news and updates about American football outside the United States. It covers leagues, teams, football news, and events from around the world, showcasing how the sport is growing globally. A directory of players, coaches, and teams is provided, along with country information, showcases of international games, and exclusive content for subscribers. Information is provided for those interested in writing for AFI.
https://www.americanfootballinternational.com/
Formed in 1985, the BAFA is the national governing body for the sport of American football and non-contact flag football in the United Kingdom. It is affiliated with the International Federation of American Football. In 2010, they formed the BAFA National Leagues as the country's primary competition for contact football, and in 2010, they began a partnership with the National Football League to promote flag football. Membership, governance, and contacts are posted.
https://clubs.britishamericanfootball.org/
Europlayers is a platform connecting athletes, coaches, and teams involved in American football across Europe. It serves as a hub for players looking to join teams, coaches seeking opportunities, and teams searching for talent. Viewers can explore player profiles, signings, team standings, game scores, and success stories. Viewers may browse its content or search by players, teams, coaches, agents, services, or keywords. Advertising opportunities are available.
https://www.europlayers.com/
International Federation of American Football
The IFAF is the international governing body of American football associations. Headquartered in La Courneuve, France, the IFAF oversees the organization and promotion of all international competitions across both contact and non-contact versions of the game, including the IFAF World Championship of American Football. The IFAF includes Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania branches. Its history, members, schedules, and football operations are featured.
http://americanfootball.sport/
International Football Alliance
The IFA is a professional, outdoor, 11-man American football summer minor league operating internationally in Mexico and the United States. Its inaugural season will begin in 2025 with seven teams: one in Mexico and six in the United States. The teams include the Dallas Pioneros, San Antonio Caballeros, Chihuahua Rebelion, Tampa Tornadoes, Alabama Beavers, Ohio Valley Ironmen, and an expansion team, the Arkansas Storm. Season schedules, drafts, and expansion inquiries are set forth.
https://www.ifa.football/
OneWorld American Football International
Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, membership in OneWorld American Football International is open to individual teams, clubs, and leagues from all countries, with flag or tackle participants welcome. Memberships are also available to independents and start-up programs. Members can play on the international stage for championships and exhibition games, including the annual OneWorld Bowl Games, as well as national and international combines and camps. Contacts are provided.
http://oneworldamericanfootball.com/
United Kingdom Football League
The UKFL is interested in raising the profile of American football as a sport in the UK, creating a space for players and coaches to develop, allowing talented individuals to pursue a career in football, building a strong community for fans, delivering a high-quality, inclusive gameday experience, and inspiring a new generation of fans and players. The league plans to create and fund six new teams and begin play in 2027. Opportunities for investors and sponsors are noted.
https://teamukfl.com/
