The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) is pleased to announce the return of the IFAF World Junior Championship, set to take place in Edmonton, Alberta from June 20-30. This event marks the highly anticipated comeback of international American football, featuring the commitment of eight exceptional U20 teams ready to compete on the global stage.
Tournament Co-chair Tim Enger expressed gratitude for the support received:
“The trust placed in us by our community and government partners is immense. We are committed to delivering an unprecedented world-class event for IFAF, drawing the eyes of the world to our city like never before.”
The championship resumes after a hiatus caused by the global pandemic, with the previous edition held in 2018 at Mexico City’s Estadio Olimpico, where Canada triumphed over Mexico in front of an IFAF record crowd of over 35,000.
IFAF President Pierre Trochet anticipates a landmark event:
“The U20 World Championship represents the pinnacle of global football. With the Edmonton team’s meticulous two-year preparation, we expect to elevate the standard for IFAF events to new heights.”
This year’s championship is especially notable for featuring eight competing teams, the largest roster since 2014, highlighting the sport’s expanding international appeal.
The teams are as follows:
1. Canada – Defending Champion
2. United States – 2018 Bronze Medalist
3. Japan – Asian Champion
4. Austria – European Champion
5. Australia – Oceania Champion
6. Panama – South American highest rank
7. Brazil – South American Qualifier
An additional spot remains open, with a short-term application extension granted by the Local Organizing Committee (LOC). The final team rankings and match schedules will be released shortly.
For more information and updates, please visit the IFAF website
About IFAF
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) is the international governing body for the sport of American football and is responsible for all regulatory, competition, performance and development aspects of the game on a global level. Fully recognized by the International Olympic Committee and a signatory to the WADA Code, IFAF has over 70 member nations across five continents.
About Football Canada
Football Canada is the national governing body for amateur football in Canada, representing tackle, touch, and flag components including players, coaches, officials, and administrators. Established October 21, 1882, it is among the oldest national sport governing bodies in Canada. Football Canada is committed to the development and promotion of all forms of Canadian football, advocating for the interests of its member associations at the provincial and national levels. As a proud member of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), Football Canada prepares national teams for competition in IFAF-sanctioned events, including the World Junior Championships. Through educational programs, national championships, and collaboration with provincial associations, Football Canada aims to inspire unity within the Canadian football community and excellence at all levels of the sport.
About the 2024 IFAF U20 World Championship
The Edmonton IFAF U20 World Junior Championship is a celebration of emerging talent in international American football, where the top under-20 players from around the globe come together to compete at the highest level. Hosted in Edmonton, Alberta, the event promises to bring together diverse nations in a tournament and festival that highlights sport, diversity of culture and the connective power of athletic competition.