United Football League Launches Expansion Process

The United Football League has announced the launch of its first expansion process for prospective markets looking to bring spring football to their communities.

The UFL currently consists of eight teams — the Arlington Renegades, Birmingham Stallions, Michigan Panthers, Houston Roughnecks, Memphis Showboats, San Antonio Brahmas, St. Louis Battlehawks and D.C. Defenders. The league, which merged with the USFL in January 2024, is owned 50 percent by the Fox Corporation and 50 percent by XFL Properties LLC, which is headlined by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

“As the UFL lays the groundwork for future growth, we’re excited to begin exploring new markets for expansion, where spring football can not only live, but thrive,” said Russ Brandon, UFL president and chief executive officer.

The 2025 UFL season will kick off March 28, 2025, with a 10-week regular season, followed by two conference championship games and the championship game on June 14, 2025.

The UFL is looking at several attributes to identify markets when selecting its new cities, including fan interest and existing sports culture, geography and population and venue and infrastructure availability.

“These expansion efforts validate our vision and early success, demonstrating how spring football resonates with fans and reinforcing our commitment to broadening its reach,” Brandon said. “With the strength and structure of our ownership group, along with our media partners, we are well-positioned for the long haul and look forward to identifying communities that have the potential, and desire, to host a UFL team.”