DETROIT (WWJ) - Football fans in Michigan will have one less team to root for. The Michigan Panthers are officially leaving the state.
After a thorough analysis of all markets and venues, the United Football League made the decision to depart from Michigan. The league will also leave the Memphis and San Antonio markets.
The departure was reported several months ago, but confirmed by the team on Friday.
The UFL released a statement: “Unfortunately, due to stadium constraints, the available venues do not align with our new vision of focusing on smaller, more intimate settings that elevate the fan experience.”
The Michigan Panthers play at Ford Field. Some people have thrown the idea around about moving the team to Rynearson Stadium, which is home of the Eastern Michigan Eagles football team.
Many fans were against moving the team out of Michigan. Super fan Mike Cowan started a petition in July in an effort to save the team.
The team said they are deeply grateful for the support of devoted Panthers fans, writing in the statement that their passion and commitment has been invaluable to the league.
It’s not clear where the Panthers will go at this time. The UFL said further details will be shared next week.