Stuttgart Surge and Vienna Vikings set for ELF title clash with 30,000 tickets sold

Date: September 7, 2025 | Location : MHP Arena, Stuttgart
Kickoff: 3:00 PM CEST | Halftime act : Die Fantastischen Vier

AFI | American Football | 09/02/2025

Photo: Svenja Sabatini

The Stuttgart Surge and Vienna Vikings will face off in the European League of Football Championship Game on September 7 at MHP Arena, with over 30,000 tickets already sold for a contest poised to showcase the league’s surging popularity.

Vikings aim to reclaim throne
The Vienna Vikings, 2022 ELF champions and last year’s runners-up, advanced with a 28-20 semifinal win over Nordic Storm. Quarterback Ben Holmes and Head Coach Chris Calaycay seek redemption after their 2024 title-game loss to the Rhein Fire, with Calaycay vowing to leverage “physical and mental preparation” for the final hurdle.

Surge ride hometown advantage
Stuttgart earned its second championship berth by defeating the Munich Ravens 27-13, fulfilling their “finale dahoim” (home final) ambition. Head Coach Jordan Neuman praised his team’s resilience, calling the opportunity to host “unique and special.” The Surge, led by quarterback Reilly Hennessey, aim to avenge their 2023 title-game defeat to Rhein Fire.

Fan festivities elevate event
A pregame Power Party and Family Experience Day will precede Sunday’s clash, while Stuttgart hip-hop icons Die Fantastischen Vier headline the halftime show—a first in ELF history. The 30,000+ ticket sales signal robust demand, though short of last year’s 41,364 attendance in Gelsenkirchen.

Legacy on the line
For Vienna, victory would solidify their ELF dynasty. For Stuttgart, a win would deliver their maiden title and validate their home-field campaign. The matchup hinges on Holmes’ pocket precision versus Hennessey’s mobility, with both defenses tested to contain explosive skill players.

Event details: