UFL Plans Four-Market Expansion Through 2028

On Sep. 23, 2026 the UFL said it will add four markets over two seasons and grow to 10 teams. Colorado and Rhode Island start in 2027 at Weidner Field and Centreville Bank Stadium, replacing Birmingham and Houston after 2026. Utah and Oklahoma join in 2028 at America First Field and MAPS4 Multipurpose Stadium; Utah is a new market, not a replacement. UFL co-owner Mike Repole said, "There is a real energy around this league right now, and we're thrilled to bring that energy to four new markets." He linked the four cities to the markets, venues, and fan bases sought after July. On Houston he said, "The reality is that we did not give this market the consistency it deserved. Between venue changes, team-name changes, and different approaches, we made it difficult to build lasting momentum." Birmingham and Houston exits were announced July 30, 2026. In October 2025 the league folded three franchises and reassigned players. Louisville closed 2026 with a sellout championship win. Rhode Island opens at home April 2 at 8 p.m. ET on Fox; Colorado on April 11 at 3 p.m. ET on ABC. Name and logo for Rhode Island unveil Oct. 18.