The Ultimate Guide to
Flag Football
Fast-paced. Non-contact. Explosive growth. Welcome to the home of Flag Football in the UK and Ireland. Start your journey on the gridiron today.
Your First Steps
The Rules (5v5)
Forget the heavy pads. Flag football in the UK and Ireland follows IFAF 5v5 rules. The goal is simple: advance the ball down the field by passing or running, and score a touchdown. Instead of tackling, defenders pull the flag off the ball carrier’s belt.
The Gear
All you need to get started is a pair of cleats (moulded studs for grass/3G), comfortable athletic wear, and a mouthguard. Teams provide the flag belts and the footballs. It is one of the most accessible sports in the world.
Where to Play
The sport is booming. In the UK, the British American Football Association (BAFA) runs leagues across England, Scotland, and Wales. In Ireland, American Football Ireland (AFI) hosts a highly competitive all-island flag league.