While American football is most closely associated with the United States, the sport has grown significantly around the world, giving rise to professional and semi-professional leagues across multiple continents. Here’s a ranking of the top American football leagues worldwide, based on their competitiveness, professionalism, history, and global impact.

NFL (National Football League) – USA

The NFL is the pinnacle of American football. Founded in 1920, it features 32 franchises and generates over $19 billion in annual revenue, making it the most lucrative sports league globally. The Super Bowl is one of the most-watched sporting events in the world.

CFL (Canadian Football League) – Canada

Canada’s premier football league, the CFL, offers a unique version of the game with different rules and a larger field. Its championship game, the Grey Cup, is a national tradition and showcases high-caliber talent and a long-standing football culture.

XFL – USA

The XFL aims to be a fast-paced, fan-friendly alternative to the NFL. Though it has faced operational halts in the past, recent relaunches have garnered attention thanks to innovative rules and exciting gameplay.

USFL (United States Football League) – USA

Another emerging pro league in the U.S., the USFL serves as a developmental platform for players, offering quality competition and national TV exposure.

LFA (Liga de Fútbol Americano Profesional) – Mexico

Founded in 2016, Mexico’s LFA has become Latin America’s most prominent football league. It continues to expand, attracting both national and international talent and increasing fan engagement.

GFL (German Football League) – Germany

The GFL is Europe’s most competitive football league. With strong organizational structures and passionate fanbases, German teams often dominate in continental championships.

AFL (Austrian Football League) – Austria

The AFL is one of Europe’s top-tier leagues, featuring dominant teams like the Vienna Vikings. Austrian football has a strong reputation in European competitions.

X-League – Japan

Japan’s top league features company-sponsored teams, often made up of employee-athletes. Despite its unique setup, the X-League delivers a high level of play and contributes to football’s steady rise in Asia.

BFA (Brasil Futebol Americano) – Brazil

Brazil’s semi-professional league is the largest in South America. The BFA has helped grow the sport at a grassroots level and is slowly building a solid infrastructure for future growth.

LNFA (Liga Nacional de Fútbol Americano) – Spain

Spain’s main league is semi-professional but plays a key role in developing talent and promoting the sport across the country. Teams like the Badalona Dracs are recognized in European circles.