UFL Attendance Watch: Week 4 highlights mixed trends
The UFL’s Week 4 slate revealed diverging attendance trends, with some markets stabilizing while others are lagging behind 2024 numbers.
Michigan Panthers: Slow but Steady
The Panthers drew 9,674 at Ford Field on April 18, down from their Week 3 crowd of 11,013 but surpassing their 2024 peak (9,444). With two home games left, Michigan remains ahead of last year’s pace, offering cautious optimism for the fledgling Detroit market.
Arlington’s Midday Dip
The Renegades’ early Saturday game against St. Louis attracted 9,614 fans, continuing a slight decline from their Week 1 high (10,117). Arlington’s 2024 average (9,771) trails last year’s 9,887, though two remaining home dates could narrow the gap.
Houston’s Persistent Struggles
TDECU Stadium hosted just 6,613 for the Roughnecks’ matchup with Birmingham, marking Houston’s fourth straight sub-7,000 crowd since 2023. The team’s 2024 average (7,056) reflects ongoing challenges in building momentum, despite a rebrand and relocated home games to Rice Stadium.
DC Defenders: Holiday Hope
Easter Sunday brought 12,474 to Audi Field for DC’s clash with San Antonio, a dip from Week 2’s 13,142 but above their Week 1 opener (12,254). To match 2024’s robust 14,143 average, the Defenders must rally in their final two home appearances.
Road to Recovery
With only two regular-season home games left for playoff hopefuls like DC, Arlington, and Michigan, the UFL’s attendance narrative remains fluid. While Michigan’s incremental growth signals stability, Houston’s woes and Arlington’s inconsistency underscore the league’s uphill battle to cement fanbases. As the season progresses, these markets face a pivotal test: converting fleeting interest into lasting loyalty.
