LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Lynn Family Stadium will be filled with green instead of the usual purple in spring 2026.

Professional football is coming to Louisville as the United Football League announced the city on Tuesday as one of three new markets for 2026. 

Community leaders and UFL officials welcomed the Louisville Kings with open arms.

"The more activity we have downtown, the more Louisville is going to continue to thrive and I think it just reflects what an amazing sports city we are and what a great city we are overall," Mayor Craig Greenberg said.

UFL owner Mike Repole owns thoroughbreds and has owned several horses that have competed in the Kentucky Derby. He said when he was in Louisville in May, he drove past Lynn Family Stadium and thought it'd be a great place to host a UFL team.

"It's a great city and I've always read that it's such an incredible city and for some reason it deserves professional sports and hasn't gotten it," Repole said.

There were 31 cities that made bids to get a team, which includes Lexington. 

Beginning in 2026, the UFL will compete as a single, united eight-team league (no conferences), with the top four advancing to the playoffs after the regular season. The 43-game season kicks off Friday, March 27; head coaches and new uniform designs for all eight teams will be announced later.

Lynn Family Stadium's capacity (approx. 15,300, expandable beyond 20,000) aligns with the UFL's push for smaller, energetic venues. The Louisville Kings will play five home games at Lynn Family Stadium.

"To come to a great venue like that and a great city like this, is something we're really proud of, we're looking to be here for the long term," UFL CEO and President Russ Brandon said.

All teams practice in Dallas, Texas, then fly to games on the weekend. There will be times when the football season overlaps with the soccer season at Lynn Family Stadium. 

Officials said there'll be times where players and coaching staff fly out to Louisville early to do community events and interact with fans.

For more information and to place a $50 deposit on season tickets, click here.

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