The United Soccer League (USL) has announced plans to establish a Division One men’s professional soccer league in the 2027-28 season, a move that will bring top-tier soccer to more communities across the United States. This ambitious initiative is designed to expand the sport’s presence, offering new opportunities for players, teams, and fans while further cementing the USL’s role in the growth of American soccer.
Speaking on the announcement, Alec Papadakis, CEO of the United Soccer League, described the move as a “defining moment” for soccer in the US. “Creating a Division One league is a bold step forward,” he said. “We’re expanding access to elite competition and strengthening the connection between communities and the global game. This will not only grow the sport but create lasting opportunities, building a more sustainable and vibrant soccer ecosystem in the U.S.”
The new Division One league, which will be recognised as the highest level of professional soccer in the United States by the U.S. Soccer Federation, is the latest evolution in the USL’s strategy to expand soccer’s reach. With the USL Championship (Division Two) and USL League One (Division Three) already in place, the new top-tier league will create a fully integrated system that offers a clear progression for players and clubs alike.
The addition of a Division One league completes the USL’s player development pipeline, which provides an avenue for athletes to develop from youth through to the highest professional standards. This move is expected to enhance the quality of competition, increasing the standard of play in the USL as well as the domestic player pool, better preparing American players for international competitions.
Papadakis added, “The USL model empowers clubs with more autonomy, allowing them to compete at the highest level while staying closely tied to their communities. We see the potential for top-tier clubs to thrive in cities of all sizes across the country. The demand for soccer and the necessary infrastructure is already in place, and we believe the possibilities for growth are immense.”
The timing of the announcement also coincides with a surge in interest in soccer in the United States. The country is gearing up for significant global events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, which are expected to further ignite enthusiasm for the sport. With rising participation rates and increasing media exposure, soccer’s profile in the US has never been higher.
Founded in 1986, the USL is the largest and fastest-growing soccer organisation in the United States. It currently impacts more than 200 communities across the country and offers a comprehensive youth-to-professional pathway for both men and women. The USL’s men’s league structure includes the USL Championship (Division II), USL League One (Division III), and USL League Two (pre-professional), while the women’s pathway includes the newly formed USL Super League (Division I) and the USL W League.
With broadcast deals with major national and international media outlets, including CBS Sports, ESPN, and Peacock, the USL is the most widely accessible soccer league in the country, continuing to build momentum for the sport’s future.
