AAFI Meets DPD RI Chairman to Strengthen National Flag Football Ecosystem
American Football Indonesia (AAFI) is refining strategic steps to expand flag football across Indonesia. To strengthen regional organisation and development, AAFI officials held a meeting with DPD RI Chairman Sultan B. Najamudin at the DPD RI office in Jakarta on Monday (25 May). Attendees included Afie Panigoro, Head of the National Team Formation Division, and national flag football athlete Galih Gibran. The discussion focused on enhancing regional coaching and establishing provincial branches to create a more structured and inclusive sports ecosystem.
DPD RI Chairman Sultan B. Najamudin welcomed AAFI’s initiative, stating that flag football is an attractive and inclusive sport with significant growth potential in Indonesia. “This positive development requires support, coaching, and collaboration from all parties to ensure sustainable progress,” he said.
Afie Panigoro explained that AAFI is actively promoting community growth nationwide as a foundation. The long-term goal is not just popularity but official recognition from the National Sports Committee (KONI) and participation in prestigious events. “We hope flag football development in Indonesia will not only reach the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics but also feature in national and regional competitions such as the National Sports Week (PON), SEA Games, and Asian Games,” he added.
Galih Gibran, drawing from his experience in the United States, expressed confidence in Indonesia’s potential due to high youth enthusiasm. “The growth potential in Indonesia is substantial, especially with many young people eager to learn and develop in the sport,” he said.
With flag football set to be an official Olympic sport in 2028, AAFI seeks DPD RI’s support to expedite national recognition, enabling young athletes nationwide to compete internationally. The Indonesian National Flag Football Team’s participation in the 2025 IFAF Asia-Oceania Football Championship has received support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora).