USL names Division One 'USL Premier' and targets 2028 launch

Goal reported Tuesday morning that the United Soccer League has named its new Division One "USL Premier", targeting a 2028 start. The USL Premier will sit atop a three-tiered structure that includes the USL Championship and USL League One and aims to field 20 teams competing nationally, departing from the two-conference setup of the Championship.

The league below will also take on a nationwide slate, with promotion and relegation set to come into effect immediately. "USL Premier is a defining piece of our long-term vision for the men’s game," said Alec Papadakis, CEO of the United Soccer League. "We’ve built a multi-tier professional system that is both scalable and rooted in communities.

By establishing a clear structure, we’re creating a strong foundation for clubs, players, and fans, and unlocking meaningful opportunities for stakeholders and investors as we continue to grow the game and prepare to introduce promotion and relegation." A handful of USL Championship sides have taken steps toward joining: Louisville City and North Carolina FC have announced their intent; Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Sacramento Republic, Detroit City and Miami FC are building new stadiums; OKC Energy is expected to enter as an expansion franchise.