CHIHUAHUA, Mexico — The Chihuahua Rebelión has officially withdrawn from the International Football Alliance (IFA), marking the second departure in less than a week—and placing the league’s inaugural campaign in jeopardy. According to a detailed press release released Friday, Rebelión cited “multiple administrative, financial, and ethical irregularities” within the league, in addition to direct ties between IFA leadership and individuals under active FBI investigation.
“This decision was not taken lightly. It is based on troubling facts that directly affect the integrity of the sport and the principles on which our team was founded.” — Chihuahua Rebelión Press Statement via Instagram
Their exit follows closely on the heels of the Tampa Bay Tornadoes’ departure from the IFA just one day earlier. With only the Ohio Valley Iron Men still officially associated with the league, sources indicate a third exit may be imminent. The Iron Men are expected to release a statement within 24 hours regarding their future in the league.
A Season Marked by Instability
The IFA’s inaugural campaign officially began on May 31, with the Rebelión opening at home against the Dallas Prime. The game was supposed to mark a fresh chapter for professional football in Mexico. Instead, it became the first and last IFA appearance the Rebelión would make. Within days, the team’s internal tensions began spilling out publicly. An Instagram post—purportedly from team investors—announced the withdrawal of support from head coach Mauricio Balderrama and GM Diógenes Guzmán. Hours later, a contradictory Facebook message claimed the Instagram account had been hacked. No clarification was issued by the league. In Friday’s release, the Rebelión also confirmed that administrator Luci E. González had been removed from her role after an internal review uncovered financial discrepancies. Those matters, the team stated, are now under legal review.
“From this point forward, Rebelión Tarahumara will operate independently, exploring new paths and partnerships that reflect the true values of sport, transparency, and commitment to our community.” — Rebelión Tarahumara Press Statement via Instagram
An Independent Future
Despite its league exit, Rebelión made it clear it has no plans to shut down operations. The club will continue as an independent franchise and has announced three upcoming home games for July 12, 19, and 26 at Estadio Universitario in Chihuahua. Opponent details have not yet been released. “This is not the end,” the team added. “It’s the beginning of a new era for Rebelión.” Meanwhile, the IFA—once positioned as a unifying force for international professional football—now finds itself on the brink of collapse. If Ohio Valley confirms their departure, the league will be left without any active franchises. League officials have yet to issue a public response to these developments or the FBI-related allegations.
Timeline of Exits
Date
Event
Jan 7, 2025
Baltimore Lightning exit amid contract dispute and alleged mismanagement
Apr 14, 2025
Alabama Beavers depart, citing broken promises; IFA responds with fraud claims
Late May 2025
San Antonio Caballeros cease operations days before season start
May 31, 2025
IFA officially launches inaugural season with six teams
June 13, 2025
Tampa Bay Tornadoes exit citing mismanagement and transparency issues
June 14, 2025
Chihuahua Rebelión exits, citing FBI-linked leadership and financial misconduct
June 15–16, 2025
Ohio Valley Iron Men expected to confirm their status—league’s future hangs in balance
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