Big changes are coming to the United Football League (UFL) as the Michigan Panthers prepare to leave Detroit after the 2025 season. Citing stadium constraints and a shift towards smaller, more intimate venues, UFL officials confirmed the Panthers, along with the Memphis Showboats and San Antonio Brahmas, will be relocating for the 2026 season.
Why the Move?
According to UFL CEO and President Russ Brandon, the current venues in Michigan, Memphis, and San Antonio don't align with the league's new vision. The Panthers, who have played at Ford Field (home of the Detroit Lions) for the past three seasons, found the arrangement too costly. While the move initially aimed to lend credibility to the team, the financial burden proved unsustainable.
"After a thorough analysis of all markets and venues, the United Football League has made the difficult decision to depart from the Michigan, Memphis and San Antonio markets," Brandon stated. "Unfortunately, due to stadium constraints, the available venues in these areas do not align with our new vision of focusing on smaller, more intimate settings that elevate the fan experience."
What's Next for the UFL?
The UFL plans to maintain an eight-team league in 2026. Five teams will remain in their current locations: the Birmingham Stallions, Arlington Renegades, D.C. Defenders, St. Louis Battlehawks, and Houston Roughnecks. League officials are expected to announce two new markets next week, in addition to the new franchise based in Columbus, Ohio.
A Potential Return to Michigan?
Despite the departure, Brandon hasn't ruled out a future return to Michigan. The league is reportedly in discussions with Detroit City FC regarding their upcoming stadium, slated to open in 2027. This could potentially pave the way for the Panthers to return to Detroit in the future.
"We are excited about the possibility of the new soccer venue in downtown Detroit, and we look forward to continuing discussions with [Detroit City FC co-owner Sean Mann] and his staff about the possibility of the Panthers returning to Detroit," Brandon said.
The UFL's franchise shakeup comes after it brought on a new owner, Mike Repole, who specializes in marketing. The league previously focused on making a good television product.