USL adopts promotion and relegation: Will MLS follow suit?

The United States Soccer League (USL) announced on Tuesday that its clubs voted to implement a system that European, Latin American, and clubs across the globe have had in place for years: promotion and relegation.

The USL becomes the first professional sports league in the United States to adopt this model, marking a groundbreaking moment that will define the future of professional soccer in the U.S.

“A new chapter in American soccer begins,” said Alec Papadakis, CEO of the United Soccer League. “The decision by our owners to approve and move forward with this bold direction is a testament to their commitment to the long-term growth of soccer in the United States.”

“This is a significant milestone for the USL and highlights our shared vision with our team ownership to build a league that not only provides top-tier competition but also champions community engagement,” said Papadakis. “Now, just as it is in the global game, more communities in America can aspire to compete at the highest level of soccer. It’s time.”

USL reshapes future of soccer in America: Will other leagues follow suit?

Currently, the USL, which represents the second and third tiers of American professional soccer, has the USL Championship featuring 24 teams and the third-tier USL League One, featuring 14 teams. The change to a promotion-and-relegation system should be implemented by the 2027-28 season.

Major League Soccer (MLS) is the U.S.‘s Division One league and has not, as of now, voted to implement the system. It is a separate entity from the USL. However, in February, the USL applied for first-division status to establish USL Premier, potentially alongside MLS.

If the USL Premier is approved, there would likely be promotion and relegation across the three divisions: USL Championship, USL League One, and USL Premier. Meahwhile, MLS will remain separate and with its current structure, which doesn’t have a fluid division system.

MLS, with its high expansion fees and ownership structure, is unlikely to follow suit, at least not anytime soon. They will definitely be monitoring the USL to see how the new system develops though.

The USL Championship League and League One seasons began on March 8 and will run until late October.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.