The 2026 NAIA Football National Championship Game will be played at the Crowley ISD Multipurpose Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday, December 19, 2026. The venue, which seats 8,000 fans, features artificial turf and full press facilities.
A Return to Familiar Ground
This marks the second consecutive year the championship will be staged at the 8,000‑seat stadium, a venue known for its modern amenities and intimate atmosphere.
The 2025 title was secured by Grand View University of Iowa, which edged Keiser University of Florida 22‑16 in a tightly contested final. Jackson Waring, the NAIA Player of the Year, was the standout performer for Grand View.
The championship series dates back to 1956, making it one of the longest‑running college football events outside the NCAA structure. Texas will host the game for the ninth time overall, with Fort Worth serving as the second host city after previous editions in Arlington and Houston.
The NAIA’s Reach
Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics oversees a nationwide network of small‑college programs. The organization emphasizes character‑driven, education‑based competition, a philosophy that has guided its growth since the mid‑20th century.
Fans attending the 2026 contest can expect a blend of tradition and innovation, as the NAIA continues to showcase emerging talent while preserving the intimate, campus‑centric atmosphere that distinguishes its events.