The Great Britain & Northern Ireland team, aiming for 50-70 medals, excludes footballers. Previous Olympic football dominance waned post-1945 with difficulty being competitive and ceased entering by 1972.
Olympic football changed in the 1980s with professional player inclusion, but FIFA decided in 1992 to limit ages to under 23, allowing up to three older players from 1996. Africa and Latin America rose as dominant forces.
Politics plays a role in Britain's absence, with concerns about individual FIFA memberships. Despite potential strength with combined player pools, a men's team decision was made after 2012, unlike the women's team.
A British team could contend for an Olympic football medal, with the age limit allowing for experienced players. However, England and Scotland's existing separate teams remain a barrier to Team GB's full participation.
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