"Teams with contractual relationships will be part of the upcoming schedule"

In an interview with ProSiebenSat.1, ELF CEO Zeljko Karajica discussed the current situation of the European League of Football, the upcoming season and competing leagues.

What is the current situation of the ELF? What are the goals and possibilities with the self-administration insolvency process?

Zeljko Karajica: "We are deliberately using the preliminary self-administration proceedings as a strategic instrument. It allows us to implement necessary changes independently within a legally protected framework while business and game operations continue fully. The wages and salaries of our employees are secured through insolvency benefits. Our goal is to strengthen the league economically, involve investors, and sustainably develop football in Europe."

Why wasn’t the situation turned around before Christmas with Ingo Schiller as hoped?

Karajica: "The decisive factor was that planned capital measures could not be implemented as intended. As a result, we lacked the financial basis for some of the planned steps. The challenges were therefore not in operational leadership, but in financing. The self-administration process now provides the necessary structural framework."

Given the current situation, how likely is an ELF season in 2026?

Karajica: "The 2026 season will take place as planned. Our operations are continuing, sporting planning is in full swing, and we will publish the schedule by the end of February as announced. The proceedings are intended precisely to ensure this continuity and to stabilize the league economically for the coming years."

With the Vienna Vikings and Rhein Fire gone, Stuttgart insolvent, and the Munich Ravens not planning to play in the ELF - what sporting value will the ELF have in 2026?

Karajica: "The market is moving, which shows how strongly football in Europe is developing. At the same time, we take our contractual responsibilities very seriously and hold our partners to the same standards. Teams with contractual relationships will be part of the upcoming schedule. That creates stability for fans, sponsors, and media. We stand for professionalism, reliability, and a sustainable league system that will remain attractive from a sporting perspective."

How do you view the AFLE and the EFA league - is there room for two European leagues?

Karajica: "Every new development shows that the sport is growing. At the same time, fragmentation ultimately weakens everyone involved. The ELF relies on clear rules, commitment, and a professional league system. Some EFA teams have valid contracts with the ELF, and we place great importance on fulfilling obligations within these structures and resolving differences constructively."

Why didn’t things ultimately work out after five years of development? How long will it take to return to the 2025 level?

Karajica: "In the past five years, we have built enormous reach, structures, and brand recognition. The proceedings are a logical step on this path and help us continue to professionalize. They give us legal tools to quickly and effectively reorganize existing structures."

Is it possible to operate and grow a semi-professional league in Europe without support from the NFL?

Karajica: "A stable European league primarily needs a viable business model, reliable partners, and clear structures. Cooperation with the NFL can provide momentum, but it is not a prerequisite. We rely on our franchise system, our reach, and investors who believe in the growth potential of European football."

Many investors called for your resignation, and Ingo Schiller was ready to take over as CEO. Why did the change not happen?

Karajica: "That step was directly linked to the capital increase planned for December 18, 2025. That financing measure did not take place - and with it, all other parts of the agreement."

What lessons have been learned from the past months?

Karajica: "It became clear that transparency, early communication, and clear structures are essential. We have already created more opportunities for exchange, provided more insight into financial figures, and intensified dialogue with teams. The self-administration process is the logical continuation: we are creating legal clarity and strengthening structures."

Source: ProSiebenSat.1/ran