Former NFL All-Pro Ryan Kalil and NBA All-Star Blake Griffin are embarking on an ambitious journey to transform Mexico's American football landscape. Their involvement extends beyond a simple investment; it represents a commitment to elevate the Liga de Fútbol Americano Profesional (LFA) and foster the growth of American football in Mexico.
In January 2025, Kalil and Griffin acquired a controlling stake in the Monterrey Fundidores, a team in the LFA, and rebranded it as Osos Monterrey. This acquisition marks a significant step in their plan to invigorate the league and tap into Mexico's burgeoning American football fan base, estimated at 40 million. The duo's ownership group includes notable figures from the NFL, such as Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Sam Darnold, Greg Olsen, Luke Kuechly, Julius Peppers, Jonathan Stewart, and former coach Ron Rivera. Additionally, personalities like Dan "Big Cat" Katz and Eric Sollenberger (PFT Commenter) have joined the venture.
Kalil, reflecting on the venture, emphasized the opportunity to grow the game internationally with the help of friends and colleagues who possess experience from competing at the highest levels of professional sports. Griffin and Kalil also co-founded Mortal Media in 2016, a production house that will produce a documentary that will chronicle their ownership journey and the team's first season under their leadership.
The LFA, established in 2016, has experienced steady growth, expanding from four to nine teams. Alejandro Jaimes Trujillo, the LFA Commissioner, sees Kalil and Griffin's arrival as the dawn of a new era for American football in Mexico, confident that their involvement will strengthen the league and propel it forward.
To further boost the LFA, Global Sports Capital Partners (GSCP) is leading a US$100 million investment to enhance the league over the next seven years. This marks the first instance of U.S. private equity investment in a Mexican sports league. GSCP's investment aims to elevate the LFA's professional standards, expand youth programs, and promote women's flag football. Michael MacDougall, from GCSP, stated that this investment extends beyond the league itself, representing an investment in Mexico's future and the global growth of American football.
The Osos Monterrey, under Kalil and Griffin's leadership, aim to connect with a broader audience. The team was initially founded in 2017 and has become a dominant force in the LFA, securing its first championship in 2022. The team gained attention in 2017 when NFL legend Chad "OchoCinco" Johnson played his final professional game with the team.
The LFA is preparing for its upcoming Draft in Mexico City and the first season of the Osos under new ownership. Kalil and Griffin plan to support women's sports and cultivate local talent. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of increasing inclusivity and expanding opportunities within the LFA.
With a blend of sports expertise and business acumen, Kalil and Griffin are positioned to make a lasting impact on Mexican American football. Their investment, coupled with GSCP's financial commitment, signals a promising future for the LFA and the sport's development in Mexico.
