AFLE CONFIRMS ITALIAN INVOLVEMENT FOR 2026
The American Football League of Europe (AFLE) has confirmed the launch of a new Italian franchise set to join the league for the 2026 season, marking a significant expansion into one of Europe’s emerging football markets.
The addition represents what the league describes as ‘an important step in bringing professional American football to a growing audience in Italy’, with the project being built around ‘delivering a professional, American-style football experience while accelerating the sport’s domestic development’.
Central to that ambition is a focus on identity and infrastructure. The franchise intends to establish a strong team culture, prioritise player development and create pathways for Italian athletes to become recognised figures within their own communities. The stated objective is not only competitive credibility, but long-term structural growth for the game in Italy.
To lead the project, the AFLE has appointed Bart Iaccarino as general manager, bringing a sometimes controversial figure back into the football fold. Iaccarino possesses European experience, having previously served as GM of the Barcelona Dragons for three seasons, guiding the Catalan franchise from inception to becoming one of the more respected teams in European football at that time.
In Italy, his mandate is clear: construct a professional home for domestic talent and build a roster centred on leading Italian players. The broader aim is to create an organisational framework that supports athlete progression and prepares players to compete at the highest continental level.
“It is an honour for me to be appointed as the new general manager of the Italian franchise that will represent our country in the American Football League of Europe,” Iaccarino said. “I am proud to be part of this new project and to have the opportunity to work for my country, helping Italian players earn prominent roles on the European stage. I will do everything possible to place Italian football where it truly belongs in continental competitions.”
The AFLE believes the franchise will play a key role in strengthening the sport’s footprint in Italy, combining professional standards with a development-driven model designed to inspire the next generation of players and supporters — despite the rival European Football Alliance having also announced a future franchise in Milan. The two competing leagues also have mirror franchises in Paris for 2026.
Brand development is already underway, with the team’s official name and logo scheduled for release in March. Under Iaccarino’s leadership, the league says it expects the Italian side to become ‘a cornerstone of its continued growth across Europe’.