USL revenue-sharing vote strengthens platform for expansion

The United Soccer League’s men’s professional clubs have approved a new revenue-sharing model, establishing a defined mechanism for participating in national league revenue growth as the organisation develops a connected three-division system.The agreement also introduces broader commitments between the league and its clubs, following a newly ratified collective bargaining agreement covering the USL Championship and the planned USL Premier competition.USL president and chief executive Paul McDonough said: “We have a tremendous opportunity to grow soccer in this country, and we’re much clearer today about the role the USL can play in doing that. "We can bring professional soccer to more communities, give more players and coaches meaningful environments to develop and create a competitive system where games matter and clubs have something to play for.“Our owners have invested tremendously in this league, and today’s vote shows the alignment we have around where we’re going and what we’re building together. There’s a lot of work ahead, but I’m excited about what we can accomplish together.”The model forms part of a wider programme under McDonough, supported by investment from BellTower Partners, the firm led by former Carlyle Group chief executive Kewsong Lee.BellTower’s strategic partnership, now entering its second year, gave the USL its first access to institutional capital and has supported investment across the business alongside work on the league’s development plans.Louisville City chairman and chief executive John Neace added: “I’ve been around the USL a long time, and I’ve seen this league evolve tremendously. As owners, we look at things from our side of the table, and the league has its responsibilities on the other side.“This is an important step that allows us to work more cohesively and make decisions that are good for the game, not just our own individual interests. A rising tide lifts all boats, and I believe this will strengthen the USL as a whole.”The revenue agreement and collective bargaining settlement establish arrangements with clubs and players ahead of USL Premier’s intended launch in 2028, when promotion and relegation are also planned.Premier would sit above the Championship and League One, with the longer-term vision for the top two competitions to become single-table national leagues of approximately 20 clubs each while League One expands regionally.One Knoxville managing partner and founder Drew McKenna commented: “The USL is at its best when our clubs give communities across America a place to show their passion for the world’s game. "This revenue-sharing model gives the league and our clubs a stronger foundation to keep investing in those communities and building for the future. It’s another important step in building American professional soccer around what matters to our fans.”The USL’s wider investor base includes Weatherford Capital, Advaya Capital and family offices, with the organisation positioning expansion across its men’s and women’s leagues as a way to bring professional football into more communities and develop additional pathways for players and coaches.