Joint Statement: EFA and ELF Agree to Reunify European Professional American Football

for a professionally
operated league.
EFA and ELF also thank Zeljko Karajica for his role in building the current platform and acknowledge his
decision to step aside from league governance and operations as the organization transitions to a more
collaborative structure.
The reunification process was significantly shaped by the work of Ingo Schiller, acting on behalf of the
ELF following the leadership transition, whose efforts in rebuilding dialogue, resolving structural
barriers, and framing the new governance model helped make today’s agreement possible.
Benefits for Fans, Players, Coaches, and Partners
• For fans: a stable, reliable lineup of competitive teams and a schedule you can count on, with
stronger broadcast standards and a better game-day experience across Europe.
• For players and coaches: a stable league with consistent rules and services, reliable operations,
and a stronger platform to develop and showcase talent at the highest level.
• For sponsors and partners: a more coordinated Europe-wide network, the ability to scale
partnerships across the full league, reliable standards and delivery, and a long-term vision. We
compete on the field, while off the field we’re one team growing this sport in Europe.
Next Steps
Joint working groups from both organizations are now finalizing:
• 2026 league composition, competition format and scheduling
• Unified venue and broadcast standards
• Game operations protocols
• Fan-experience initiatives for all markets
We will announce the final participants for the 2026 season in the coming weeks. Additional updates will
follow as these elements are finalized.
Media Contacts
EFA Communications: contact@efa.football
ELF Communications: press@europeanleague.football