UFL co-owner Mike Repole appeared on McElroy & Cubelic in the Morning on Jocks 94.5 to discuss the Birmingham Stallions' future and his vision for the league. During the interview, Repole addressed fan concerns about the franchise's stability, confirmed the team will play in Birmingham next spring, and explained his strategy for building sustainable attendance across the league.
Birmingham Stallions Guaranteed to Return in 2026
Repole directly addressed speculation about the Stallions' future after his viral social media challenge to sell 5,000 season tickets created uncertainty among fans. When pressed by host Cole Cubelic about the team's status, Repole provided definitive confirmation.
Cole, don't tell anybody, but the Birmingham stallions will definitely be playing next year in Birmingham. But please keep that between us, all right?"
This statement ends weeks of speculation following Repole's initial challenge that sparked concern among Birmingham fans who have witnessed multiple professional football franchises leave the city. The confirmation provides clarity for season ticket holders and fans planning for the 2026 spring season. Does this lock the Stallions or could we see a change in 2027 if they don't hit ticketing goals.
Attendance Challenge Was Market Research, Not Ultimatum
The 5,000 season ticket challenge that created headlines last week served a different purpose than many assumed. Repole clarified his intentions behind the social media campaign that generated significant engagement from Birmingham fans.
"Really, the challenge, Cole and Greg, was I needed to know if there was a pulse in this league anywhere. I could have tried any market. I chose Birmingham strategically because I'm in my 50s now, and I remember the Birmingham stallions and the New Jersey Generals and the Houston gamblers."
There were four teams on the rumored chopping block. Birmingham fans were the most vocal on Twitter. Houston and Memphis there was not a peep. Michigan there was some life online. Not sure I buy that this was some type of marketing strategy.
Plans for 20,000 Fans at Protective Stadium
Repole outlined specific attendance goals and venue modifications planned for Birmingham home games. The co-owner wants to create an intimate atmosphere at Protective Stadium while building toward sustainable attendance numbers.
"I want to cover up the top bowl, play in the lower bowl, make it 24,000. Let's get 15, 20,000 fans out there. I saw pictures in the '80s where you had 20,000 fans. Let's get the fans out there."
This approach represents a shift from trying to fill larger stadiums to creating packed environments in smaller configurations. Repole plans to attend the home opener himself and expects 19,999 other fans to join him for what he envisions as a celebration of spring football in Birmingham.
Players Will Spend More Time in Birmingham
Addressing fan concerns about community engagement, Repole committed to keeping players in Birmingham longer than just game days. This change responds to feedback about the need for stronger connections between the team and local community.
"The one thing we're going to do is we're going to bring the players down, not just in for the game and out. I'm going to bring them either a day before or a day or maybe both. They're really seeing the local community, working with people down there."
This initiative would be good for all teams thoughout the league, generating local press and fan integrations. However, will this be enough to drive season ticket sales.
Dynasty Status Should Drive Fan Support
Repole emphasized Birmingham's championship success should translate to stronger attendance numbers. He pointed to the team's dominant performance over the past four years as a reason for optimism about fan engagement.
"This is a market where the team has been... This is like a sports dynasty there. I mean, they've had the best record the last four years. They had three championships in a row with Skip Holtz."
The co-owner acknowledged scheduling challenges, including Mother's Day games and poor weather, but maintained that championship-caliber football should overcome these obstacles. He positioned the Stallions as the "Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers of spring football" and expects fan support to match that status.
Mike Repole's interview provided Birmingham Stallions fans with concrete assurances about their team's future while outlining an ambitious vision for spring football. The co-owner confirmed the team will play in Birmingham in 2026, set a target of 20,000 fans for home games, and committed to increasing player involvement in the community.
The full interview can be heard on McElroy & Cubelic in the Morning on Jocks 94.5 FM or through the Jocks FM app.