ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The Indoor Football League board of directors has approved an ownership transfer for the Duke City Gladiators. Michael Fietz and Bob Pitre have bought the team from Gina Prieskorn-Thomas.
Prior to the sale of the team, the Gladiators were slated to take a hiatus for the 2025 season. The hiatus will continue as new ownership will asses a venue and new opportunities for 2026. Among the potential changes for the team is a rebranding.
Fietz and Pitre had previously been sponsors of the Gladiators. They said they are committed to renewing the team with deeper ties into the community.
“Both Mike and Bob are the type of owners that will not only elevate the Gladiator brand but the IFL as a whole,” stated IFL Commissioner, Todd Tryon. “I’ve been very impressed with their impact and ties not only to Albuquerque but the whole state of New Mexico. They both have a long track record of success, and I look forward to that carrying over into the IFL.”
Fietz will also operate as the general manager of the team moving forward.