Latest Football (Soccer) News

📅January 30, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Baller League suspends German operations amid expansion to UK and US; Sandnes Ulf vs Viking FK friendly match highlights today's soccer schedule.
1

Baller League Shuts Down Operations in Germany

The digital-focused six-a-side Baller League has suspended its activities in Germany indefinitely after two years.Source 2 Founded in 2024 by Felix Starck with backing from Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski, it aimed to boost soccer's speed and excitement.Source 2 The league will now prioritize growth in the UK and US markets.Source 2

2

Baller League Postpones Fourth German Season

Baller League Germany had planned its fourth season for January but delayed from November 2025 before shutting down.Source 2 High-profile figures like Kevin-Prince Boateng, Christoph Kramer, Marco Reus, and Alisha Lehmann were involved.Source 2 Organizers confirmed the indefinite suspension today.Source 2

3

Baller League UK Thrives with Soccer Legends

Baller League UK launched last March, featuring teams managed by Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Gary Lineker, John Terry, Jens Lehmann, Robert Pires, and Freddie Ljungberg.Source 2 O2 is the headline sponsor, with Sky securing live broadcast rights on Sky Sports and Now.Source 2 It continues as a key focus for expansion.Source 2

4

Baller League US Set for March Launch

The US edition of Baller League is scheduled to launch this March amid the German shutdown.Source 2 This follows international expansion efforts supported by major investments.Source 2 The league aims to scale operations globally.Source 2

5

Baller League Secures €23 Million in Series A Funding

Last year, Baller League raised €23 million ($24.1 million) in Series A funding led by EQT Ventures, with Apex and Courtside Ventures participating.Source 2 A prior 2024 round generated $8 million.Source 2 Funds support UK/US growth and production scaling.Source 2

6

Sandnes Ulf vs Viking FK Friendly Kicks Off Today

Sandnes Ulf faces Viking FK in an international club friendly on January 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM.Source 1 View live scores, box score, stats, play-by-play, highlights, and odds on FOX Sports.Source 1 Recent form shows Sandnes Ulf with mixed results including a 2-2 draw and 4-3 win.Source 1

7

Viking FK Enters Friendly with Strong Recent Record

Viking FK approaches today's match against Sandnes Ulf on a high, with wins like 3-2 vs DJU and 5-1 vs VIF.Source 1 The game is part of preseason preparations.Source 1 Full matchup details available live.Source 1

8

Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski Back Baller League Venture

German internationals Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski served as presidents for Baller League Germany at launch.Source 2 They supported the innovative indoor format with other stars.Source 2 Efforts now shift abroad post-shutdown.Source 2

9

Baller League Apex Investment Fuels Global Push

Portugal-based Apex provided major investment last year for Baller League's international expansion.Source 2 This covered operational costs, staff hires, and matchday production.Source 2 UK and US leagues benefit directly.Source 2

10

Sandnes Ulf Recent Form Ahead of Viking Clash

Sandnes Ulf's latest results include a 2-2 draw vs ARF, 2-1 loss vs VAH, 4-3 win vs VID, and 3-0 win vs BRY.Source 1 They host Viking FK today in a key friendly.Source 1 Follow live on FOX Sports.Source 1