Mike Repole, the billionaire entrepreneur behind Vitaminwater and BodyArmor, is set to overhaul the United Football League (UFL) with a bold vision to expand it to 16 teams within the next decade. Repole, who has taken full control of the league's business operations, is focusing on market changes, smaller stadiums, and a more vibrant game-day atmosphere to elevate the UFL's popularity.

Market Changes and New Teams

Repole has announced that the UFL will relocate at least two of its current home markets by the 2026 season, with Columbus, Ohio, confirmed as one of the new locations. The team in Columbus will play at Lower.com Field, home of the MLS' Columbus Crew, which has a capacity of around 21,000. Repole emphasized the importance of smaller venues to create a more intimate and lively atmosphere, contrasting with the large, often sparsely filled college stadiums the UFL has used in the past.

Enhancing the Game-Day Experience

Repole is prioritizing venue size and attendance to improve the league's perception. "The vibe hasn't been to where it should be," he said. "Nobody wants to turn on the TV and see 10,000 fans in a 65,000-seat stadium. It's like watching a COVID game." He aims to drive attendance to an average of 10,000 to 15,000 fans per game for each team, promising to take full responsibility if these goals aren't met.

Long-Term Expansion Plans

Repole’s long-term vision includes expanding the UFL to 10-12 teams within five years and ultimately to 16 teams by 2035. This would make the UFL half the size of the NFL, a significant milestone for a league that has struggled to find its footing in the competitive landscape of spring football. Repole believes that the UFL’s strong financial backing, media partnerships, and entrepreneurial leadership set it apart from previous failed leagues.

Community Engagement and Player Exposure

In the short term, the UFL’s eight teams will continue to practice at a central location, likely in Arlington, Texas. However, Repole plans to increase teams' presence in their home markets, allowing players and coaches to spend more time engaging with local communities. "You can't be a real league in five years and have your D.C. team in Arlington," he said.

A New Era for Spring Football

With Repole at the helm, the UFL is poised to become a major player in the world of spring football. His aggressive, hands-on approach and commitment to creating a more engaging and dynamic league could finally bring the stability and success that previous leagues have lacked.