The United Football League (UFL) will likely relocate the Birmingham Stallions to a new city next season, despite the league receiving millions from local governments.
According to a report from Pro Football Newsroom, Birmingham is one of the four teams the UFL plans to relocate to different markets for the 2026 season, following a disappointing attendance turnout. The UFL also laid off staff in Birmingham, Houston, Memphis and Michigan markets recently, according to the outlet.
The city of Birmingham, Jefferson County and the Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau spent millions to bring the Stallions to Birmingham in 2022.
Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said reports that the team was leaving Birmingham were "rumors."
Woodfin said, "We've heard the rumors from unofficial sources and have been assured by the league that no final decisions have been made about numerous teams for next season, including the Stallions. We were surprised by these rumors, since the Stallions have already begun collecting deposits for next year's season tickets."
"The Stallions have built a strong, passionate fan base and have seen tremendous success on and off the field," Woodfin continued. "Birmingham was FOX's number 1 UFL viewership market in the country. There's no question the team has become a source of pride for our city. We're sharing new strategies with the league to strengthen local attendance, boost sponsorships and maximize the team's long-term success here. There is opportunity for growth and we're committed to working together to make that happen. Giddy Up!"
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