The Indoor Football League (IFL) was established in 2008 when the United Indoor Football League (UIF) and the Intense Football League (IFL) merged to form a new, unified league. In its inaugural 2009 season, the IFL featured 19 teams, with the Billings Outlaws defeating the River City Rage to win the first-ever United Bowl Championship.

Since its formation, the IFL has grown into America’s longest-running indoor football league, outlasting competitors and expanding its footprint across the country. In 2018, the league celebrated its 10th anniversary season, setting new records for attendance while continuing its mission to deliver high-quality indoor football and provide a platform for talented athletes.

In 2020, the IFL entered a historic agreement with the Steve Germain Family, which took over national sponsorships, advertising, broadcast rights, licensing, marketing, and communications. This partnership helped the league expand its national reach and revenue opportunities, further solidifying its status as the premier professional indoor football league.

Ahead of the 2022 season, the IFL secured a three-year partnership with the Vegas Golden Knights and Dollar Loan Center, establishing Henderson, NV, as the host site for the IFL National Championship (formerly the United Bowl). This agreement brought the championship to a state-of-the-art venue, enhancing the league’s biggest game.

The 2023 season marked the IFL’s 15th year and became the most successful season in league history in terms of attendance, partnerships, and national exposure. That year, the IFL signed a broadcast deal with CBS Sports Network, ensuring the next three IFL National Championship games would be televised nationally, along with additional regular-season games.

The league also introduced sports betting partnerships, allowing fans to engage with the game in new ways through predictive gaming and betting platforms.

In 2024, the IFL announced a five-year partnership with Game One, making them the league’s official uniform and apparel provider. Under this agreement, all IFL teams will be outfitted in adidas uniforms and gear starting with the 2025 season.

As part of the league’s continued efforts to grow the game, the IFL National Championship will move to Tucson, Arizona, for the 2025-2027 seasons. This three-year commitment provides a new home for the league’s premier event, expanding its reach while offering players and fans a top-tier championship experience.

The IFL has also made major strides in technology and digital innovation, forming key partnerships to enhance the game. Through a collaboration with SnipBack, the league has introduced advanced game filming, live stats tracking, instant replay technology, and AI-driven cameras, improving officiating, game analysis, and the overall fan experience. Additionally, the launch of the IFL Network, powered by Visaic, brings fans closer to the action with expanded streaming options across web, mobile, and app-based platforms, ensuring greater access to IFL games and content.