CFL, XFL exploring potential partnership

The CFL announced Wednesday it will work with XFL owners Dany Garcia, Dwayne Johnson, and RedBird Capital to find opportunities to "collaborate, innovate, and grow the game of football."

"Canada has an exciting game and devoted fans, and our discussion with the XFL provides a tremendous opportunity to build on that strong foundation. We look forward to exploring how we might work with one of the most innovative sports brands in the world to grow the game, engage fans in new ways, and reach new audiences," CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie said.

"We look forward to seeing what possibilities our discussions might uncover, and to sharing those with our fans as the process unfolds."

XFL president Jeffrey Pollack spoke of the CFL's deep history as a major reason for the two leagues to work together.

"It's clear through our early conversations that we share a passion for football, an expansive sense of possibility, and a deep desire to create more opportunity for players and fans across North America and around the world," Pollack said. "Blending the CFL's rich heritage with our fresh thinking and the unique reach and experience of our ownership could be transformative for the game."

Both leagues are in the process of returning to play. The CFL canceled its 2020 season after failing to secure the funds necessary to play from Canada's federal government. The league announced its 2021 schedule in November.

The XFL, meanwhile, canceled its 2020 season midway through the campaign and filed for bankruptcy before Garcia, Johnson, and RedBird Capital purchased the league. Pollack said planning for a 2022 XFL season is on hold while the league engages in conversations with the CFL, according to ESPN's Kevin Seifert.

Johnson, one of the XFL's current owners, had a brief CFL stint with the Calgary Stampeders before embarking on a professional wrestling and acting career.