MADRID TO ELF AS GARBERS REPLACES SINNETT

The European League of Football has confirmed the Madrid Bravos as its fifth officially locked-in franchise for the 2026 season, joining the previously announced Raiders Tirol, Frankfurt Galaxy, Prague Lions and Paris Musketeers.

Since debuting in the ELF in 2024, the Bravos have quickly established themselves as one of the league’s most competitive organisations, reaching the playoffs in each of their first two seasons, delivering one of the league’s most dynamic offenses via QB Reid Sinnett and WR Aron Cruickshank and, most recently, gaining international visibility through a partnership with the NFL’s Miami Dolphins.

Following the 2025 campaign, the franchise has entered a transition period marked by the departures of Sinnett (to retirement), Cruickshank (to the UFL) and head coach Andrew Weidinger. Rather than reset, however, Madrid has moved decisively to shape its next phase, retrieving former OC Dave Warner from Prague to be the next head coach, securing key contract extensions and identifying a long-term solution at quarterback.

That solution comes in the form of former UCLA signalcaller Ethan Garbers, who brings experience from two major NCAA programmes, having begun his college career at Washington before transferring back to his native California. Garbers, 23, appeared in 40 games for the Bruins, starting 18, and threw for 4,462 yards and 31 touchdowns. He has also spent time in an NFL environment after signing as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers in 2025.

Madrid has also strengthened its coaching staff with the addition of Jim Ward, one of the most experienced coaches in European American football. Active on the continent since 2011, Ward has won five national championships, and previously held roles in the ELF with the Helvetic Guards, Milano Seamen and Raiders Tirol. He joins the Bravos as linebackers coach, adding veteran leadership and deep league knowledge to the defense.