At just 13 years old, Olive Busby is set to make history as one of the youngest flag bearers ever to appear at a FIFA World Cup final.
She will represent both the United States and her club, Albion Las Vegas GA Aspire U14 girls, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, a venue that will host the sport’s biggest showdown.
A center back and co‑captain of Albion Las Vegas, Olive has been a starter since the eighth grade and helped her middle‑school team capture the Clark County School District championship last year.
Her coach, Anand Nair, submitted her name for consideration through the tournament’s sponsor, Adidas, citing her leadership, dedication and tactical intelligence as qualities that set her apart.
A Young Ambassador for the Global Game
The selection underscores a growing recognition of youth talent in international competitions, highlighting how emerging players can serve as ambassadors for the sport’s future.
Beyond the flag‑bearing honor, Olive is eager to watch Spain’s rising star Lamine Yamal and Argentina’s legend Lionel Messi in action, describing the experience as the pinnacle of her soccer journey.
She plans to continue playing through high school and college, hoping the World Cup exposure will open doors to higher levels of competition.