• Loading stock data...
Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Promotion, Relegation Could Come To U.S., But It’s Complicated

  • USL poised to make historic step toward new competitive structure
  • Cultural norms in U.S. sports likely prevent broader rollout
Nate Billings, The Oklahoman

A system of team promotion and relegation — critical to how many global leagues operate, particularly in soccer — could finally be headed to the U.S.

The United Soccer League is reportedly set to vote next month on a season format in which teams would move between the USL Championship and League One depending on the final standings. The two leagues are the respective second and third divisions of the American soccer pyramid below MLS.

If approved, the move would be a first in major U.S. sports, one designed to boost interest and visibility for the USL — which has grown steadily but still faces challenges in a crowded sports market. 

The vote isn’t slated to implement the new system straight away, but rather certify sufficient owner interest to proceed.

Cultural Obstacles

While promotion and relegation remains a fixture in European soccer — even to damaging financial effect — massive obstacles remain before any such system could take broader hold in the U.S.

Most U.S. pro stadium development and projects involve at least some element of public money or infrastructure aid, contributions often joined by legal covenants mandating the teams in question remain in their respective cities and leagues.

MLS commissioner Don Garber has been lukewarm at best about promotion and relegation for that league, saying earlier this year, “I don’t see how that works today, but I can’t look far enough in the future to say never.”

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Jul 19, 2019; South Bend, IN, USA; Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk (4) passes the ball in the second half of a preseason preparation soccer match against the Borussia Dortmund at Notre Dame.

Liverpool’s $598M Gamble Looks Pretty Average on the Pitch—So Far

Liverpool struggles after historic offseason spending and lofty expectations.
Signs promoting the FIFA World Cup Final coming to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Wednesday Feb. 7, 2024. The World Cup is held every four years and the 2026 World Cup Final match will be played at MetLife Stadium.

High Ticket Prices Define First World Cup Presale

Most fans weren’t picked for the pricey first presale window.

Featured Today

Paul Cartier

Sports Organists Are Still Thriving in the Era of Raucous Arena Music

“When they walk out and they see a real organ guy, it’s like, ‘Wow.’”
Sep 27, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers center fielder Jackson Chourio (11) rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the sixth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at American Family Field.
October 4, 2025

Milwaukee Moneyball: Brewers Are Beating MLB’s Deeper Pockets

Milwaukee is holding its own against big-budget competitors.
Kōloa Rum Company Rum Rusher
September 27, 2025

Panthers Bubbly, Jets Wine, Manning Whiskey: The Sports Booze Boom

A sommelier dives into the sports booze trend—and tries Jets wine.
Nov 17, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers fans wave Terrible Towels against the Baltimore Ravens during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium
September 26, 2025

Steelers’ Irish Roots Are Deeper Than NFL Dublin Game

The Steelers have history and the foundation for a future in Ireland.
exclusive

Bud Selig: ‘Remarkable’ Brewers Run Can’t Mask MLB’s Money Divide

The former commissioner lauds his hometown team while raising economic concerns.
October 7, 2025

‘Absolutely Ridiculous’: Trump Blasts NFL Over Bad Bunny Choice

The president predictably panned the NFL’s selection of the Puerto Rican superstar.
October 8, 2025

MLB’s Rare October Day: Four Playoff Games, Four Possible Clinchers

Four separate clinching opportunities are available during the day.
Sponsored

How Jenny Just Is Shaping the Future of Sports Ownership

Jenny Just on bringing her investment experience to sports ownership.
Maverick Carter, LeBron James
exclusive
October 7, 2025

New International Basketball League Plans Launch, Without Maverick Carter

The venture plans to launch men’s and women’s leagues next fall.
Taylor Swift
October 7, 2025

Taylor Swift Explains Why She Isn’t Playing Super Bowl Halftime

She said she’s “too locked in” on Travis Kelce’s season to perform.
October 7, 2025

NHL Skates Into Season With Record Revenue, Rising Cap, and Labor Peace

The new season begins after a productive and historic summer.
Scott Foster
October 6, 2025

NBA Refs Testing Earpieces in Preseason Games

The technology won’t be used in the regular season yet.