German federation, AFVD, finalizes team licensing for 2026 GFL and GFL2 seasons

| American Football | 12/23/2025

The American Football Association Germany (AFVD) has officially completed the licensing process for all teams set to compete in the 2026 German Football League (GFL) and GFL2 seasons, solidifying the lineup for Germany’s top two American football leagues.

GFL North and South divisions locked in
The top-tier GFL will feature a mix of established powerhouses and competitive franchises across its two regional groups. In the North, Berlin Rebels, Braunschweig Lions, Hildesheim Invaders, and Potsdam Royals make up the first-group lineup, with Dresden Monarchs, Düsseldorf Panther, and Kiel Baltic Hurricanes set to join in the second group. The South division will include Allgäu Comets, Ravensburg Razorbacks, Pforzheim Wilddogs, and Saarland Hurricanes in its initial group, followed by Munich Cowboys, Regensburg Phoenix, Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns, and Straubing Spiders. Notably, the Paderborn Dolphins withdrew their license application and will not participate in the GFL this season.

GFL2 welcomes familiar and rising programs
The GFL2 lineup is also set, featuring several teams eager to compete for promotion. The North group will include Elmshorn Fighting Pirates, Hamburg Pioneers, Krefeld Ravens, Langenfeld Longhorns, Leipzig Lions, Minden Wolves, and Rostock Griffins. The South group comprises Augsburg Centurions, Biberach Beavers, Gießen Golden Dragons, Montabaur Fighting Farmers, Albershausen Crusaders, and Wiesbaden Phantoms. In a shift from past seasons, there will be no internal division within the regional groups of GFL2 in 2026, reflecting the league’s ongoing structural reform.

Looking ahead to kickoff
With licenses confirmed, the AFVD and league organizers will now turn their attention to crafting the 2026 match schedules and clarifying promotion and relegation guidelines. This announcement brings clarity and excitement for fans, players, and organizations alike as the countdown to the next chapter of German football officially begins.

American Football International is your source for news and updates about American Football outside the United States!