The Great Britain women’s national flag football squad represented the International Federation of American Football at the Opening Ceremony of The World Games at the Tianfu International Convention Centre at the Sichuan Tianfu New Area in Chengdu.

The Brits are in China holding a mini camp before facing reigning champions Mexico, Japan and Italy when the group stages begin at The World Games on August 14. All games will be streamed live at The World Games Live between August 14 and 17.

“Our first World Games opening ceremony was a once in a lifetime experience,” said the team in a collective statement. “It was a spectacle of music, dance, culture and 110 countries represented. It was great to have a message from IOC President Kirsty Coventry at the ceremony, reminding us how closely tied we are to the Olympic Games. The efficiency and attention to detail of the organising committee was outstanding.

“Team GB thoroughly enjoyed celebrating the lighting of the torch with the other nations. These are memories to hold onto for a lifetime!”

The Opening Ceremony accommodated 8,000 temporary seats while also offering lakeside viewing for more than 1,000 spectators. Hip-hop dance served as the opening act, delivering not only a visual spectacle but also a cultural celebration of sports, youthfulness and confidence. The performance highlighted the artistic energy and vibrant cultural identity of both The World Games and the host country and ran for 90 minutes.