Arena Football One Kicks Off 2026 Season With Action-Packed Opening Weekend

by Ben Nelson



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Arena Football One Kicks Off 2026 Season With Action-Packed Opening Weekend


April 6, 2026


The wait is over. Arena Football One (AF1) is back! The 2026 season kicks off this weekend with four can’t-miss matchups that promise to deliver fast-paced, high-scoring action to fans across the country.


From wall-to-wall hits to highlight-reel touchdowns, the AF1 delivers a brand of football that is faster, louder, and closer to the fans. Opening weekend is set to showcase the league’s top players and coaches as teams make their first statement in what is sure to be a highly competitive season.


“This is where it all starts,” said AF1 Commissioner Jeff Fisher. “Opening weekend is a celebration of the incredible talent across our League – players, coaches, and organizations all coming together to put on a great show for our fans. If you love fast, high-scoring, edge-of-your-seat football, Arena Football One is where you need to be this weekend.  We’re excited for everyone to tune in, come out to games, and be part of the experience that is the AF1.”


The spotlight shines bright on Saturday night as the Minnesota Monsters travel to face the defending ArenaCrown champion Albany Firebirds in the VICE TV Game of the Week.


Opening Weekend Schedule & Where To Watch:

  • Minnesota Monsters at Albany Firebirds

    • Saturday, April 11 at 6 PM (ET) – VICE TV Game of the Week 

  • Michigan Arsenal at Kentucky Barrels

    • Sunday, April 12 at 5 PM (ET) - HTN 

  • Oregon Lightning at Washington Wolfpack

    • Sunday, April 12 at 6 PM (ET) - HTN 

  • Beaumont Renegades at Oceanside Bombers

    • Sunday, April 12 at 8 PM (ET) - HTN


All eyes will be on Albany as the Firebirds begin their title defense in front of a national audience. Firebird Head Coach Damon Ware knows the challenge—and the opportunity—ahead.  “We are super excited to defend the Crown,” said Ware.  “It has been a long time since we’ve lost a game and we look forward to extending our streak.  The league is growing in a positive way, there are several strong coaches and outstanding players across the league. It will take tremendous effort and perseverance to win the championship in 2026."


Ware added, "We can't wait to host teams in Albany. We have a fantastic crowd and a great game day experience. The season can't come fast enough. We will see everyone on April 11th."


Whether you’re watching from home or feeling the energy live in the arena, the AF1 invites fans everywhere to be part of the action.


Follow Arena Football One on social media for live highlights, big plays, and behind-the-scenes access all season long. Tune In. Show Up. Get Loud.



WHERE TO WATCH 2026 AF1 ACTION:



ABOUT ARENA FOOTBALL ONE:

Arena Football One delivers fast-paced, fan-focused, action-packed arena football to fans nationwide. With established teams and veteran leadership, the AF1 is the arena football standard bringing fans closer to the action with every snap, every hit, and every touchdown.  Don't miss a minute of Arena Football One action! 


For more information, visit https://www.theaf1.com/or follow the AF1 on social media:


X: af1football

Instagram: af1football

Facebook: AF1

Tik Tok: af1football