It’s becoming the summer of soccer in the United States, with the global sport repeatedly dominating local schedules.
For the NFL, this has meant accommodating FIFA’s World Cup demands at American football stadiums. Now, the UFL faces a similar situation with the Orlando Storm, who secured a home playoff berth but cannot host the game in their home city, state, or stadium.
The UFL has cited “prior commitments to an international soccer match” as the reason the Storm’s home stadium will be unavailable for their June 7 playoff game. Instead, the match will take place in Columbus, Ohio.
“The UFL made every effort to locate a suitable alternative in Central Florida to maintain the game’s local appeal,” the league stated. “However, major football-ready venues in Orlando and the surrounding region—including UCF’s Acrisure Bounce House and Camping World Stadium—are either occupied or under renovation. Other potential sites were also reviewed but were deemed unsuitable due to broadcast limitations and logistical challenges.”
The Storm, D.C. Defenders, and St. Louis Battlehawks have confirmed playoff spots. Meanwhile, the Birmingham Stallions and Louisville Kings remain in contention for the final open berth.
The Columbus Aviators, already out of playoff contention, disqualify themselves as the “road” team for Orlando’s “home” game, as the Aviators’ stadium will not be used for the matchup.