USL to Challenge MLS with New Division I League

The United Soccer League (USL) has announced plans to launch a Division I men's professional soccer league in the 2027-28 season, which would compete directly with Major League Soccer (MLS) as the only top-tier league in the U.S. The league aims to have 12 to 14 teams, meeting U.S. Soccer's requirements, including having teams in major metropolitan areas and stadiums with at least 15,000 seats. USL's efforts follow the launch of a women's Division I league, the USL Super League, and reflect its commitment to expanding soccer in the U.S. This move could lead to competition for talent and fans between the USL and MLS, with the potential for future mergers similar to those in other American sports leagues.