USL and players ratify new collective bargaining agreement through 2030

The short version

• The United Soccer League and its players association ratified a new labor deal running through 2030 covering the Championship and upcoming USL Premier.[The Guardian]
• The pact institutes 12-month contracts and increases Championship base compensation to $42,000 in 2026, up from $31,000.[The Guardian]
• USL Premier is set to launch in 2028 with a $67,500 salary floor, expanded healthcare, and competitive prize money.[The Guardian]
• Operational details and team selections for the planned promotion and relegation system across the three USL tiers remain unannounced.[The Guardian]

Key facts

• The United Soccer League and USL Players Association ratified new collective bargaining terms taking effect immediately and running through 2030.[The Guardian]
• The agreement introduces 12-month player contracts, moving away from previous 10-month standards in lower-division soccer.[The Guardian]
• USL Championship minimum base pay, including housing, increases from $31,000 to $42,000 in 2026, with annual increases scheduled thereafter.[The Guardian]
• The upcoming top-tier USL Premier is set to launch in 2028 with a minimum compensation floor of $67,500.[The Guardian]
• The agreement mandates expanded healthcare coverage, updated medical standards, prize money, and altered commercial licensing rights.[The Guardian]
• The third-division League One labor agreement expires after 2026 and remains under negotiation.[The Guardian]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• USL and players ratify new CBA, raising salaries and introducing 12-month dealsThe Guardian - US