Respected Danish coach and sports administrator Lars Carlsen has been appointed IFAF Sport Manager. With a career spanning over three decades in sports management and an unparalleled commitment to the development of American football, Lars brings deep expertise to the organisation. He joins IFAF following five years as CEO of the Danish American Football Federation (DAFF), where he led the federation and ensured the implementation of long-term strategic initiatives. Lars has a proven track record of leadership both on and off the field, serving as DAFF’s Athletic Director and head coach, as well as Athletic Director and CDM for the Danish Flag Football National Team. He played a vital role in securing important financial and expert support from Team Denmark, a key organisation supporting Olympic sports in Denmark. “I am honoured to join IFAF at such an exciting time for the sport,” said Lars. “In my role as Sport Manager, I look forward to working with the global American football community to build robust pathways for participation, develop strong competition structures, and prepare our athletes, referees, and coaches for continued success on the world stage.” Pierre Trochet, IFAF President, welcomed Lars to the organisation, saying: “Lars’ appointment as Sport Manager represents a significant step forward for IFAF. His unparalleled experience and commitment to the sport will be invaluable as we navigate this period of growth and opportunity, particularly with the Olympic spotlight on flag football. We are confident that Lars will play a central role in shaping the sustainable future of American football worldwide.” As American football continues its extraordinary international growth, Lars’ leadership will ensure that all disciplines of the sport – tackle and flag – are positioned for even more success. This includes enhancing competition structures and continuing to prioritize the education and training of referees, coaches, and officials. Ahead of flag football’s debut on the official sports programme of the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028, Lars’ expertise will be instrumental in continuing to elevate the global profile of the game including as IFAF’s lead at The World Games 2025 Chengdu in August this year. The most inclusive and accessible format of the game, flag football is one of fastest growing disciplines in the world with over 20 million players in 100 countries.