WENZLER TO WROCLAW

Craig Llewellyn World Football

The Panthers Wroclaw have added a proven winner to their secondary ahead of the 2026 AFLE season, signing German cornerback Ben Wenzler fresh off a European League of Football championship run with the Stuttgart Surge.

Wenzler, 25, arrives in Wroclaw with more than a decade of football experience and a reputation as both a playmaker and a leader. He began his career in 2013 with the Stuttgart Scorpions, developing through the club’s system before stepping away briefly in 2017 to attend an American high school in Michigan. That year, he says, helped reshape his understanding of the game.

“I look back on my time in high school as having a huge impact on my career,” Wenzler said. “That experience also showed me how fast the sport is in the States, so I had to adapt to that pace.”

After returning to Germany, Wenzler transitioned to senior football and later joined the Surge when the ELF launched. While his early years included setbacks, he eventually became a cornerstone of Stuttgart’s defense and a key figure in last season’s championship campaign. Now, he brings that experience to a Panthers team preparing for the inaugural American Football League Europe competition.

“My playing style is quite aggressive and intelligent,” Wenzler explained. “I always try to get to the ball and create key plays. I also really enjoy physical play and hitting opponents, which is rare for some cornerbacks.”

With no option but to look for another team following the Surge’s decision to file for bankruptcy, Wenzler said discussions with the Panthers made the move feel right.

“I had good and lengthy conversations with the Panthers Wroclaw,” he confirmed. “I was convinced by their organisation and stability — and I believe we are building something special here and that we can succeed.”

Wenzler revealed that he has already spoken with new head coach Dave Likins about his role in the defense, and that it could expand as the season progresses.

“I fully trust Dave’s system and look forward to learning from him,” Wenzler said. “He told me he might rotate my position a bit, and I’m excited about the challenge. We want to shake things up and reach the championship game — and I think the Panthers have everything to achieve that. Let’s fill the stadium to capacity, because this year will be special!”