UFL will relocate Houston, Birmingham franchises

Published July 30, 2026 03:21 PM As expected, the UFL announced on Thursday that it will relocate the Stallions from Birmingham.As not expected, the UFL announced on Thursday it will relocate the Gamblers from Houston.“Two new replacement markets will be added for 2027, and the league plans to expand to 10 teams by 2028, including the addition of Oklahoma City,” the UFL said in a press release. “The UFL has been actively evaluating markets across the country interested in bringing professional spring football to their city. The UFL has targeted a 12-team league by 2030, but with strong interest from prospective markets and league momentum that timeline may be accelerated to 2029.”UFL co-owner Mike Repole attributed the decision to secure the future for the league.“My mission is to build a league that is not only sustainable today, but also successful and thriving for decades to come,” Repole said. “Building a spring football league has required discipline and difficult decisions, which have been guided by our clear long-term vision. Every market evaluation begins with the same three principles I have said since day one — the right market, the right sized venue, and a passionate fan base.” He blamed the decision to leave Birmingham on the size of the venue; put simply, it was too big. Repole attributed the Houston decision to different factors.“Houston played an important role in reestablishing modern spring football, and we’re grateful to the fans, partners, and community who supported the Roughnecks and Gamblers,” Repole said. “Houston is a great sports city, and Shell Energy Stadium has been an outstanding partner and venue. The reality is that we did not give this market the consistency it deserved. Between venue changes, team-name changes, and different approaches, we made it difficult to build lasting momentum.”Last year, the UFL moved three teams from old markets (Memphis, Michigan, and San Antonio) to new ones (Columbus, Louisville, Orlando). In 2027, the UFL will have two new markets.