IFAF members are reaping the benefits of International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognition and their own good governance.
The Federazione Italiana Di American Football, the Asociación de Football Americano de Panama and the New Zealand American Football Federation are all celebrating ratification and recognition in Italy and Panama respectively.
On July 11, Italy’s FIDAF was recognized as an NSF, effective from January 1, 2025. Immediately after the proclamation in the Hall of Honor of CONI in Rome, the Federal Council met to confirm appreciation for a journey that began in 2002 and marks a starting point for the future.
“This is a dream come true, a mission accomplished,” declared Leoluca Orlando, President of FIDAF. “We express our gratitude to the President of CONI, Giovanni Malagò, and his predecessors,
“But the real protagonists of this beautiful mission are the players, coaches, managers, referees, statisticians, the collegiate governing and sports justice bodies, and the public. Together, we have given life to an experience of extraordinary responsibility and generosity. Full speed ahead towards Los Angeles 2028."
Panama’s recognition was confirmed by the president of the Olympic Committee of Panama (COP), Damaris Young, when she explained that this decision was taken in the second extraordinary general assembly, in which all the federations and associations that are part of the Olympic movement participated.
"I want to congratulate the federation for the very professional work that was done to present itself, and we have been working with the federation for about eight months," said Young.
President of the Panamanian federation Luis Navas added: “Almost a year after taking on the challenge of leading the federation, we embarked on a comprehensive reengineering process. Our aim was to establish a structure grounded in good governance, best practices, the Olympic Charter, and most importantly, an athlete-centered approach.
“The hard work of our team was crucial in developing a strategic plan with clear objectives, which will serve as a pillar for the sustainable growth of our sport and the realization of our Olympic dream. We share this remarkable milestone with those who have fought for our sport for many years and our growing football community.”
In Oceania, the New Zealand American Football Federation has been approved as a member of the New Zealand Olympic Committee.
“While there are still details to finalise we wanted to recognise all the hard work that has been done by Russell McConnochie our General Manager, Steph Murray our Chairperson, and all of those involved behind the scenes,” said a NZAFF spokesperson.
“This is the culmination of years of hard work both on and off the field and we are delighted to share this news. It is an awesome first step and the hard work continues.
“We want to thank the players, the coaches, the referees, the club officials, and the volunteers. Without them, we do not have a game.”
