In a groundbreaking decision for American soccer, owners of the United Soccer League (USL) voted on Wednesday to implement a promotion and relegation system, becoming the first major sports league in the United States to adopt this European-style framework. This significant shift is set to redefine competitive soccer in the U.S. and elevate the sport to new heights.

Last month, the USL revealed plans to launch a new Division One men's professional league in 2027, aimed at rivaling Major League Soccer (MLS) within the U.S. Soccer Federation's regulatory framework. This forthcoming league will operate independently from MLS, creating a three-tiered professional structure that includes Division One, the USL Championship (second division), and USL League One (third division).

USL CEO Alec Papadakis expressed excitement about this new chapter in American soccer, stating, "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. More communities can now aspire to compete at the highest level of soccer. It’s time."

Since its inception in 1986, USL has aimed to create a pathway for youth to transition into professional soccer, focusing on both men's and women's leagues. The organization recently introduced initiatives for women's soccer, including the USL Super League and the USL W League, which are designed to provide top-tier and pre-professional opportunities for women athletes.

Promotion and relegation is a model employed by numerous distinguished soccer leagues worldwide, including those in England, Spain, Germany, Brazil, and Argentina. Traditionally, this concept has been viewed with skepticism by MLS Commissioner Don Garber, but the USL’s adoption marks a pivotal change.

"This development transforms the competitive landscape of American soccer," stated USL President Paul McDonough. "With the upcoming 2026 World Cup and other major events on the horizon, the time is ripe to harness this momentum and pave a sustainable future for the sport in the U.S. Fans are eager for high-stakes competitiveness—matches where every point matters, similar to European leagues. This evolution will enrich the excitement and relevance of the game across the nation."

As soccer continues to grow in popularity in the United States, the introduction of promotion and relegation may well set a precedent that encourages deeper fan engagement and community support, solidifying soccer’s place within the fabric of American sports culture. This bold move by USL could herald a new era for the sport in the country—one that embraces tradition while simultaneously modernizing its approach to competition.