The XFL didn't even last a full season, this time around. The alternative football league's inaugural season, which was a relaunch of a failed 2001 campaign that lasted one year, got through just half its season before the coronavirus pandemic forced what was initially said to be a temporary closure.
"The XFL is committed to playing a full season in 2021 and future years," the league said via a statement last month.
It looks like the XFL is done ... again. While other established leagues, like the NBA and NHL, also ended their seasons early, the XFL, which was developing a strong following in some cities, wasn't able to overcome a lengthy pause in operations.
"Games drew an average attendance of 18,614 fans, garnering the largest crowds in St. Louis (28,541) and Seattle (25,616), while New York (14,875) and Los Angeles (13,124) found more difficulty attracting fans," reports ESPN.
XFL CEO Jeffery Pollock said Friday that the league has suspended operations and laid off all employees.
The XFL had been scheduled to conclude its regular season on April 12 and was to be followed by two weeks of playoffs. It is likely gone for good, now.
H/t to Patrick Tulini for the find.