OFFICIAL LEAGUE STATEMENT: IAL Announces Strategic European Realignment and U.S. Showcase Series

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The International Arena League (IAL) is today announcing a strategic realignment of its 2026 operations. While our matches in the United States have been played without issue and fan turnout has been strong, the opening few weeks of our season in Europe have faced significant unforeseen arena and logistical challenges. Because we are committed to a quality of gameplay that aligns with our lofty expectations, we are taking immediate action to reset and refocus our international efforts.

European Realignment & Zurich Consolidation
In light of extraordinary challenges within the local market and arena infrastructure, the IAL has made the decision to move on from the Zurich territory for the 2026 season. This consolidation allows the league to better bolster our remaining European squads and focus our resources more effectively on a long-term solution. All players on the Zurich Ibexx roster have been granted their release in light of the ceasing of operations in Zurich. We are working with those athletes who wish to remain in the league to facilitate reassignments to our other European teams. Note that acclaimed Head Coach Talib Wise will be reassigned within the League.

Schedule Adjustment & Refunds:

In light of the removal of the Zurich Ibexx, the League is coordinating with its core European markets, ticketing partners and local arenas to have major adjustments on scheduling and game operations for the remaining teams, ensuring a consistent and high-quality experience for fans. The IAL has instructed Ticketmaster to suspend sales for all upcoming European-based games as we readjust the weekly schedule, the opponents, and start times. To that end, full refund authorizations have been issued to Ticketmaster for all affected European games. Fans should contact Ticketmaster directly for refund information.

A Milestone for the Sport: U.S. Doubleheaders on IAL YouTube

To demonstrate the caliber of football we have envisioned for this league long term, we are proud to announce that we are making a big plunge and bringing all four European teams over to America for a showcase series next weekend. These will be the first European teams in history to play arena football on American soil. These games were made possible through the rapid coordination of our coaches and personnel worldwide, working in close concert with our U.S. arena partners. Both showcases will be available for fans globally on our official IAL YouTube channel.

SATURDAY, MAY 9 | CINCINNATI, OH

GAME 1: STUTTGART STALLIONS vs. GLASGOW TARTANS

GAME 2: UTAH GREAT 8’S vs. CINCINNATI SLINGERS

SUNDAY, MAY 10 | READING, PA

GAME 1: DÜSSELDORF WARRIORS vs. ENGLAND ERUPTIONS
GAME 2: ARIZONA JUGGERNAUTS vs. PENNSYLVANIA BENJAMINS

Our Commitment and Path Forward
“We recognize that we are not quite there yet in Europe, and we want to get this right,” said Tom Mitchell, COO and Chairman of the International Arena League. “Every startup faces hurdles, but we remain committed to growing the sport and continuing to improve our product. These games allow us to showcase the full potential of the IAL.”

“To that end, the IAL has currently deposited nearly seven figures in funds with various European arenas. The league is working diligently with these venues to secure the return of funds relating to unplayed games, which will be redirected toward securing alternative sites to bring Arena Football to our local fans. We are exploring all options, including legal action and litigation against those parties culpable for these incredible disruptions, to protect the interests of our players, partners, and fans.”