ProRelForUSL – a new tradition unlike any other, but like so many others

The USL announced plans to implement a promotion and relegation format starting in the 2028 season across a three-tier pyramid. Writing for Stars and Stripes FC, Parker Cleveland analyzes this major shift in the American soccer landscape, noting that while it marks a notable competitive departure from the closed franchise model used by Major League Soccer, it is not an automatic solution for the sport's growth in the country.

Cleveland argues that the global dominance of elite European soccer leagues stems from massive financial investment, revenue, and generational culture rather than promotion and relegation alone. According to the analysis, the USL must still secure significant commercial backing, media rights deals, and fan investment to truly challenge MLS and realize the broader vision of American soccer development.