USL League One ended its franchise agreement with the Northern Colorado Hailstorm, a professional soccer team. This decision follows the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing of Future Legends Sports Complex, where the Hailstorm plays, and a lawsuit filed by the team's owner, Jeff Katofsky, against the league. Katofsky alleges fraud and non-payment of prize money.
The league had previously loaned Katofsky over $1 million to cover player salaries. The bankruptcy and resulting receivership of the Future Legends complex are significant factors contributing to the franchise termination.
Despite the termination, the Hailstorm maintains it will continue operations and explore opportunities for the 2025 season, stating their intention to continue playing at the Future Legends Complex.
The lawsuit filed by Katofsky against USL League One cites several issues, including non-payment of prize money for winning the Jägermeister Cup.
The termination marks another setback for the Future Legends Sports Complex, which has faced significant financial difficulties and legal challenges in recent months.