USL and players ratify new CBA, raising salaries and introducing 12-month deals
Summary
The United Soccer League (USL) and its players' group agreed on a new contract deal lasting until 2030. The agreement raises player salaries and introduces year-long contracts for players in two USL leagues, including a new top-level league starting in 2028.Key Facts
- The new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) covers the USL Championship and the upcoming USL Premier league.
- USL Championship players’ minimum salary will rise to $42,000 in 2026 from $31,000 now, increasing each year.
- The USL Premier league, set to start in 2028, will have a minimum salary of $67,500 with annual raises.
- For the first time in lower-level US soccer, 12-month player contracts are introduced, replacing shorter agreements.
- The deal enhances player healthcare, safety standards, and introduces prize money for competition.
- USL currently manages almost all professional lower-division soccer leagues in the US.
- The CBA follows previous agreements for other USL leagues, with ongoing talks for the third-division League One.
- The USL Premier league will operate alongside MLS and plans to use promotion and relegation, allowing teams to move between divisions based on performance.
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