USL Makes History with Adoption of Promotion and Relegation
In a groundbreaking move, USL owners have voted to adopt promotion and relegation, making it the first professional soccer league in the history of the United States to do so. The decision was influenced by fan demand, with a clear desire for promotion and relegation expressed during Charleston Battery’s annual “Fan Fest” event. The vote, which passed with a supermajority, sets the stage for USL to implement pro-rel in 2028 when it launches its new Division 1 league.
The move represents a significant shift in the U.S. soccer landscape and reflects a growing trend of investors targeting clubs in lower divisions with the goal of reaching the top tier. The announcement has generated excitement among fans and investors alike, with many seeing it as an opportunity to revitalize clubs and communities.
While the vote marks a key moment in U.S. soccer history, there is still much work to be done in determining the specifics of the pro-rel system. USL will need to collaborate with owners, TV partners, and fans to establish a format that balances the playoffs and pro-rel battles effectively. The league is considering various options, including having top teams from lower divisions compete against bottom teams from higher divisions to determine promotions and relegations.
Overall, the adoption of promotion and relegation by USL is seen as a critical step in driving growth and increasing relevance in American soccer. The move reflects a broader shift towards embracing the European soccer model and could have far-reaching implications for the sport in the U.S. The decision to implement pro-rel was met with overwhelming support from fans and industry insiders, solidifying the belief that this was the right next step for USL.
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