The board of the Finnish American Football Association (SAJL) has confirmed the teams for the Vaahteraliiga for the 2026 season. League licenses were granted to eight teams, which are the same as in 2025. None of the teams in Division I applied for promotion to the top league level.

In the 2026 season, the Vaahteraliiga will feature: Porvoon Butchers, Seinäjoki Crocodiles, Kuopio Steelers, Helsinki Roosters, Wasa Royals, East City Giants, Tampere Saints and Helsinki Wolverines.

The eight-team league system remains the same as the previous season. The Vaahteraliiga regular season will be played in a 1.5 format, where all teams will face each other once, and within the two geographical divisions, teams will meet again. The top four teams from the regular season will advance to the semifinals, with the winners facing off in the Vaahteramalja XLVII game on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

The league manager of Vaahteraliiga Roope Noronen states:

– We are pleased with the stability of the league. An eight-team league ensures tight competition and develops the sport across Finland. Last season’s newcomers brought new energy – competition will tighten even further in the upcoming season!

The Vaahteraliiga schedule will be published in January.