The Brief The UFL will leave Birmingham and Houston and add two new markets in 2027. The United Football League (UFL) announced Thursday that it will discontinue operations in two markets. "We are grateful for their passion, commitment, and support, which have helped shape the continued evolution of the UFL." Repole said the decision to leave Birmingham was driven by the size of the team's venue rather than a lack of fan support. "Houston is a great sports city, and Shell Energy Stadium has been an outstanding partner and venue," he said.