The United Football League has taken another major step in shaping its future, announcing that the Birmingham Stallions and Houston Roughnecks markets will not return in 2027 as part of a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening the league and expanding its national footprint.
League officials confirmed that two new markets will replace Birmingham and Houston next season, with Oklahoma City already slated to join the UFL by 2028 as the league grows to 10 teams. The long-term goal remains a 12-team league by 2030, although league leadership indicated that timeline could move up to 2029 if interest from prospective markets continues to grow.
Building for the future
The decision marks one of the biggest changes since the formation of the UFL and reflects the league’s emphasis on sustainable growth rather than simply maintaining its current footprint.
Co-owner Mike Repole stressed that leaving Birmingham and Houston was not a reflection of the commitment shown by fans, players, coaches or local partners. Instead, he said every market is evaluated using three key factors: the right market, the right-sized venue and a passionate fan base.
Repole pointed specifically to stadium size as the deciding factor in Birmingham, noting that even crowds of around 16,000 struggled to create the atmosphere the league was seeking because of the size of the venue. He also left the door open for a future return should a more suitable stadium become available.
Houston loses out
Repole acknowledged that Houston played a significant role in the return of modern spring football but said the league failed to provide the consistency needed to build lasting momentum.
Multiple venue changes, changes in team identity and different organizational approaches made it difficult to establish a stable fan base despite playing in a strong sports market. The league thanked supporters in Houston while recognizing that it never fully capitalized on the city’s potential.
Expansion remains the priority
The UFL enters its next phase encouraged by what it described as improved business metrics and increasing interest from cities hoping to secure franchises.
League officials said discussions have already taken place with numerous municipalities, venue operators and business leaders across the country as they search for the next generation of UFL markets.
With two new franchises arriving in 2027 and Oklahoma City already on the expansion roadmap, the UFL is betting that strategic realignment now will create a stronger, more stable league for years to come.