We’re just seven days away from the Columbus Crew kicking off a new Major League Soccer (MLS) season, and while that’s exciting, there’s another significant development in the American soccer landscape. On Thursday, the United Soccer League (USL) announced plans to launch a Division One men’s professional league, set to rival MLS starting in 2027-28. Operating under the U.S. Soccer Federation, the league will adhere to its sanctioning standards.

Although the new USL league will follow the same guidelines as MLS, it will remain a completely separate entity.

“Creating a Division One league is a bold step forward, expanding access to top-tier competition, strengthening community connections, and aligning more closely with global soccer structures,” said USL CEO Alec Papadakis. “By uniting people through soccer and bringing Division One to more cities, we’re not just growing the sport—we’re creating lasting opportunities and building a more sustainable, vibrant soccer ecosystem in the U.S.”

In a statement on Thursday, U.S. Soccer added, “The continued investment in the game reflects the strength of the United States as a soccer nation, a trend that will only accelerate as we prepare to host the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. We welcome innovation and growth in the American soccer landscape and look forward to learning more.”

The new USL Division One will serve as the highest tier within the league, which currently includes the USL Championship (Division Two) and USL League One (Division Three). This tiered structure will implement promotion and relegation, a feature MLS does not have.

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Final Thoughts

Here’s why I find this development particularly interesting and why I think MLS may have some real competition on the horizon.

First, both leagues have substantial TV deals. MLS is backed by its Apple TV partnership, which, depending on who you ask, is either a massive success or a flop. Meanwhile, USL has struck a solid deal with ESPN, broadcasting some of their games on traditional network TV, with most available through ESPN+.

Another advantage for USL is its regional influence. In Ohio alone, there are three teams within a three-hour drive of Columbus: Indy Eleven, Louisville City, and Detroit City. This proximity makes for a more accessible matchday experience for supporters, with fans able to drive to away games and return home the same day. It’s a far cry from the long trek to Bridgeview, Illinois, to watch the Crew face the Chicago Fire in the pre-FC Cincinnati era.

I’m optimistic about this venture. Competition is healthy for both leagues and could elevate soccer across the U.S.

But enough from me—what do you think? Could the USL succeed in this new venture, or will MLS find a way to stifle the competition?

Let us know!