NWSL looks to expand footprint with introduction of second-tier | NWSL

The NWSL is looking to build on the rise of interest in women’s soccer by applying to create a second-tier of the league.

The league confirmed to ESPN on Friday that it had submitted a formal application to the US Soccer Federation for a second division.

“As a global leader in the women’s soccer landscape both on and off the pitch, the NWSL and its member clubs are committed to growing our sport in meaningful ways,” an NWSL spokesperson told ESPN. “The demand for professional soccer has never been higher. We look forward to working to build a strong foundation for future generations of players, officials and coaches and ensure the continued advancement of the women’s game.”

According to CBS Sports, eight of the NWSL’s 14 teams have committed to the proposed second division. The league would require each NWSL team to have a second-division affiliate within four years of its creation. The NWSL will expand to have 16 teams by 2026.

This is not the first second-tier proposal in US women’s soccer. Last week, WPSL Pro said it intends to launch its own second-tier league. US Soccer must approve new leagues but if all the planned leagues launch, then the US would have about 50 professional women’s soccer teams by the end of 2026.

Supporters of a second-tier league say it would help improve the pipeline of US talent at a time when European players are starting to dominate the women’s game.