UFL Expands footprint with Team Relocations to Columbus,Louisville,adn Orlando
Columbus,OH – February 26,2025 – The United Football League (UFL) today announced a strategic realignment,relocating teams to Columbus,Ohio; Louisville,Kentucky; and Orlando,Florida,for the remainder of its inaugural season. The moves come as the league seeks to optimize fan engagement and build lasting markets following initial challenges in attendance and broadcast viewership.
The relocation impacts the Arlington Renegades, the Memphis Showmen, and the DC Defenders. The Renegades will now play as the Columbus Conquerors,the Showmen will become the Louisville Legends,and the Defenders will be rebranded as the Orlando Vipers. UFL President and CEO, George Manesis, stated the league evaluated multiple factors, including market size, stadium availability, and local community support, when making the decision. “These cities have demonstrated a strong passion for football and offer the infrastructure necessary to support UFL teams,” Manesis said. “We are confident that these moves will create a more vibrant and competitive league.”
this shift represents a important course correction for the UFL, a spring football league formed from the merger of the USFL and XFL in January 2024. The league aimed to capitalize on the growing demand for football beyond the NFL’s season, but early results indicated a need to reassess its geographic strategy. The relocations are intended to tap into new fan bases and generate increased revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, and local sponsorships.
The UFL’s schedule will be adjusted to reflect the new team locations, with details to be released shortly. The league will work closely with local officials in Columbus, Louisville, and Orlando to ensure a smooth transition and maximize community involvement. The UFL season is currently underway and is broadcast on ESPN, FOX, and streaming platforms. The league hopes these changes will solidify its position as a viable alternative to the NFL and provide a platform for aspiring professional football players.