USL Announces Launch of Division One Men’s Professional League
The United Soccer League (USL) has unveiled plans to introduce a Division One men’s professional league, set to debut during the 2027-28 season. This move marks a significant milestone in American soccer, as the league aims to bring top-tier soccer to more communities across the country. The announcement reflects the USL’s long-standing commitment to fostering growth at all levels of the sport, providing fresh opportunities for players, teams, and fans alike.
A Bold Step Forward
“Today is a defining moment for the USL and the future of soccer in the United States,” said Alec Papadakis, CEO of the United Soccer League. “Creating a Division One league is a bold step forward, expanding access to top-tier competition, deepening the connection between our communities and taking another step in aligning with the structure of the global game. By uniting people through soccer and bringing Division One to more cities, we’re not just growing the sport—we’re creating lasting opportunities while building a more sustainable and vibrant soccer ecosystem in the U.S.”
Papadakis emphasized that this move is not only about growth but also about strengthening the foundation of American soccer at a time when the sport is experiencing unprecedented momentum. By launching the new league, the USL is positioning itself as a key player in the broader evolution of soccer in the United States.
Completing the Soccer Pyramid
The USL’s new Division One league will sit at the pinnacle of its professional structure, which already includes the USL Championship (Division Two) and USL League One (Division Three). The addition of a Division One league completes a fully integrated pathway for clubs and players, ensuring seamless progression from youth development to elite professional competition.
“The USL has long been committed to creating a structure that drives growth, opportunity, and long-term success in American soccer,” Papadakis added. “The USL model empowers clubs with greater autonomy and fosters a dynamic, interconnected system—one that allows them to compete at the highest level while remaining deeply rooted in their communities.
“Around the world, top-tier clubs thrive in cities of all sizes, and we believe the same is possible here. The demand and infrastructure are in place, and the potential for growth is immense.”
Why Now?
The timing of this announcement coincides with a period of extraordinary growth for soccer in the United States. Participation rates are rising, media coverage is expanding, and anticipation is building for major upcoming events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. These events are expected to significantly boost interest and investment in the sport, making this the ideal moment for the USL to make its move.
Key Features of the New League
- Community Focus: The league will prioritize bringing top-tier soccer to mid-sized cities, ensuring more communities have access to the highest level of domestic competition.
- Development Pathway: The league will enhance player and club development by offering a clear progression from youth academies to the professional stage.
- Competitive Excellence: Teams will be held to high standards in terms of play quality, operations, and fan engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the USL’s new Division One league? The USL’s new Division One league will be the highest level of professional soccer in the United States, as defined by U.S. Soccer Federation standards.
How does this league fit into the USL ecosystem? This new league completes the USL’s three-tier professional structure, providing a seamless progression for players and clubs from youth soccer to the highest level.
Why is this the right time? With soccer’s growing popularity in the U.S. and the upcoming global events, the USL believes this is the perfect moment to introduce a new league that can build on the sport’s current momentum.
What will the league be called? The official name and branding will be announced in the coming months.
How will teams be selected? Teams will go through an application process to ensure they meet the standards set by the USL and U.S. Soccer.
What impact will the league have on American soccer? The league aims to expand access to top-tier soccer, create more opportunities for players and fans, and strengthen the domestic player pool.
The launch of the USL Division One league marks a transformative step for soccer in the United States, promising to elevate the sport’s presence across the country and provide new avenues for growth and development at all levels.
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