NFL FLAG Championships Bring the World to Westfield and Shine a Spotlight on Central Indiana

This week, Central Indiana has become the center of the flag football world.

More than 350 boys and girls flag football teams from around the globe have arrived at Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield for the 2026 NFL FLAG Football Championships, marking the first time the tournament has been hosted in the Indianapolis region and in an NFL club market.

The event runs July 23–26 and is expected to bring thousands of athletes, families, coaches, and fans to the area while showcasing everything that makes Indiana a destination for major sporting events.

Colts owner Kalen Jackson said hosting the tournament in Indiana is something the organization is incredibly proud of.

She highlighted the state's reputation for successfully hosting marquee events and praised Westfield for being a longtime partner through Colts Training Camp and other community initiatives. It's another example of how sports continue to drive tourism, economic growth, and opportunities throughout Central Indiana.

But the championships are about much more than football.

The NFL has transformed Grand Park into an interactive experience for athletes and families. Visitors can explore the Vince Lombardi Trophy, view a collection of Super Bowl rings, enjoy local food vendors, relax in family-friendly spaces, and visit the Player HQ, giving young athletes a professional-level championship experience.

The event also shines a light on Indiana's creative community.

Indianapolis artist Shane Young, better known as FITZ, was selected by the NFL as the featured artist for the championships. His original flag football-inspired artwork is displayed throughout the event, giving a local creative the opportunity to showcase his work on a national stage.

For FITZ, the moment represents more than just an art installation—it's a career milestone and a reminder of what can happen when local talent is given a national platform.

Players are also embracing the experience.

First-time competitors from the KC Heat, including Mylee Patrick and Alexis Montoya, shared their excitement about everything the tournament offers beyond the games themselves. From the athlete experiences to meeting teams from across the country and around the world, the championships create lasting memories both on and off the field.

With flag football continuing to grow at every level—and preparing for its Olympic debut in the future—the NFL FLAG Championships highlight just how quickly the sport is expanding. Events like this not only inspire the next generation of athletes but also reinforce Indiana's reputation as one of the nation's premier sports destinations.

The 2026 NFL FLAG Football Championships continue through July 26 at Grand Park in Westfield, with games and coverage airing across Disney and ESPN platforms.

As thousands of visitors experience Central Indiana this weekend, it's another opportunity for our communities, businesses, artists, and athletes to show the country what makes Indiana special.

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