XFL files for bankruptcy, cites COVID-19 crisis

XFL filed for bankruptcy on Monday, likely spelling end of second iteration of league.

WWE-backed XFL had canceled rest of its return season last month because of coronavirus pandemic. It suspended operations and laid off its employees Friday.

league said Monday in a news release that it wasn't insulated “from harsh ecomic impacts and uncertainties caused by COVID-19 crisis.”

“This is a heartbreaking time for many, including our passionate fans, players and staff, and we are thankful to m, our television partners, and many Americans who rallied to XFL for love of football,” league said in its statement.

XFL had eight franchises this season and played five games out of a planned 10-game schedule. It drew decent TV ratings early on and had deals with ESPN and Fox.

But spring football is a difficult challenge, as Alliance of American Football found out in 2019, t lasting a full season.

XFL also played one season in 2001.