Concerns surfaced on July 22 that Birmingham’s pro football team, the Stallions, might follow in the footsteps of past Magic City franchises, such as the Americans, Vulcans, and Barracudas, after reports from UFL News Hub suggested the United Football League was preparing to relocate half of its teams.
The initial reports indicated that all four teams in the USFL Conference —the Birmingham Stallions, Houston Roughnecks, Memphis Showboats, and Michigan Panthers —were under consideration for relocation.
However, on August 22, newly appointed UFL co-owner Mike Repole confirmed that Birmingham would remain part of the league for the 2026 season. Repole, who joined the ownership group on July 31, now oversees business operations through his firm, Impact Capital.
Official Relocation Announcement
Statement from the United Football League. pic.twitter.com/EIKHDcV3A1
— United Football League (@TheUFL) October 3, 2025
On Friday, the UFL clarified its plans, revealing that only three teams will be moving: Memphis, Michigan, and San Antonio. Contrary to earlier speculation, Houston will stay, while the San Antonio Brahmas will exit the league.
In a statement, the league cited venue limitations as the primary reason for the changes: “After evaluating all markets and stadiums, we’ve decided to leave Memphis, Michigan, and San Antonio. The available facilities in these cities don’t align with our new goal of creating more intimate, fan-focused environments.”
The league expressed appreciation for fans in the affected cities and left the door open for future expansion in 2028, pending the availability of suitable venues.
Attendance and Stadium Challenges
The Michigan Panthers struggled with attendance, averaging just under 4,000 fans per game at Simmons Bank Liberty Bowl Stadium. Michigan and San Antonio fared better, drawing over 11,000 fans each, but both played in oversized stadiums, Ford Field and the Alamodome, each with capacities exceeding 60,000.
Repole has already confirmed that Columbus, Ohio, will be a landing spot for one of the relocated franchises. Other rumored markets include Orlando or Tampa, Florida, Boise (ID), and Louisville (KY).
When Will The New UFL Team Locations Be Announced?
The UFL is expected to announce the remaining new team locations sometime in the coming weeks.
League co-owner Mike Repole has indicated that up to four teams could be moved, and Louisville, Kentucky, is reportedly a strong candidate. According to multiple sources, Louisville is “very close to being secured” as a new market, thanks to its appropriately sized Lynn Family Stadium and favorable fan demographics.
The UFL has stated that further details will be shared in an upcoming announcement, which is expected to clarify the full slate of relocated teams and their new homes.