TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) announced plans to launch a Division One men’s professional league in 2027-28, bringing the highest-level of soccer to more communities across the country. This groundbreaking initiative builds on the USL’s commitment to grow the game at all levels, provide new opportunities for players, teams, and fans, and strengthen the foundation of American soccer at a time when the sport is experiencing unprecedented momentum.

“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.”

The new league will serve as a platform for both rising and established players to compete at the highest operational professional standards in the U.S., further elevating the quality of play within the USL and the level of the domestic player pool for international competitions.

Interest in soccer in the United States is at an all-time high, fueled by rising participation rates, increased media exposure, and growing anticipation for major international events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. As North America prepares to host these global tournaments, the sport is at a pivotal moment, creating unparalleled opportunities to invest in its long-term future.

What is the USL’s new men’s Division One league? 

The United Soccer League (USL) is launching a Division One men’s professional league, the highest level of professional soccer in the U.S. as defined by the U.S. Soccer Federation. This new league will expand access to top-tier competition, elevate the quality of play, and bring professional soccer to more communities nationwide. 

How does this new league fit into the USL ecosystem? 

The USL is the first and only soccer organization to offer a comprehensive youth-to-professional pathway for both men and women under one ecosystem. 

The new Division One league will complete the men’s three-tier professional system, providing a seamless pathway for clubs and players to compete at the highest level (see below).

Why is this the right time to launch a men’s Division One professional League? 

Soccer in the U.S. is experiencing unprecedented momentum, with rising participation, increased media exposure, and global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics fueling interest. The USL’s new men’s Division One league will: 

• Provide more opportunities for players, teams, front office, and communities. 
• Strengthen competition and player development. 
• Align more closely with the global structure of the sport. 
• Grow the game  

What will the Division One league be named?  

Over the next several months, we’ll be sharing more details about the new Division One league – including the official name and brand. Stay tuned by following USL on our social media channels for the latest news and league updates. 

How will you select Division One teams? 

Prospective Division One teams must meet specific standards laid out by the U.S. Soccer Federation and the USL. In the coming months, we will have an application process that prospective teams can review and plan towards. 

What makes USL Division One different? 

The USL’s club-centric model gives teams greater autonomy and flexibility, fostering sustainable growth. The new Men’s Division One league will prioritize: 

• Deep community ties – Bringing professional soccer to more markets, including mid-sized cities. 
• Pathway development – Supporting player and club progression across all levels. 
• Competitive excellence – Ensuring high collective standards for play, operations, and fan engagement. 

When will the new Men’s Division One league launch? 

Details on the launch timeline, competition format, and participating clubs will be announced in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates.  

What impact will this have on soccer in the U.S.? 

The launch of a Men’s Division One league will: 

• Expand access to top-tier men’s professional soccer in more cities. 
• Create more opportunities for American players, teams, and fans. 
• Strengthen the domestic player pool ahead of major international competitions. 
• Enhance the overall soccer ecosystem and drive sustainable growth.