Rhein Fire secures naming rights deal with NFL to keep iconic identity

The Rhein Fire, back-to-back champions of the European League of Football in 2023 and 2024, have secured their future identity after the NFL granted the franchise continued rights to use its historic team name. The agreement ensures the Fire will continue burning across European stadiums for seasons to come.

A gift from New York

In a significant show of support for the growing ELF franchise, the NFL headquarters in New York offered Number One Sportbetriebs GmbH—the operating company behind Rhein Fire—direct rights to continue using the team name. This marks a departure from the previous structure where naming rights were filtered through the league, giving the franchise greater control and long-term stability.

Managing Director Daniel Thywissen called the move “an extraordinary compliment” to everyone involved with the organization, stating, “It is a great trust that we want to prove worthy.”

Securing a legacy

The Rhein Fire name carries deep historical significance, originally dating back to the NFL Europe era. Recent developments in the European football landscape created an opportunity for the NFL to work directly with the franchise, streamlining the rights process and ensuring the team’s iconic identity remains intact.

The franchise received pro bono support from Neuss-based trademark expert Robert Meyen during negotiations. Final contractual details are expected to be finalized shortly.

More than just a name

For fans in Duisburg, Düsseldorf, and across the Rhine region, this agreement means stability and recognition. The Fire have become one of the ELF’s most successful and recognizable brands, and maintaining that identity is a win for both the team and its passionate supporter base.

As the announcement boldly declared: “Rhein Fire stays Rhein Fire. For our fans. For our future. For 2026 and beyond.” With the naming rights secured, the back-to-back champs can now focus on building their legacy both on and off the field.