NWSL submits bid to launch second division in 2026

The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) has formally applied to establish a new Division II league. With eight committed teams, each requiring an affiliated second-tier team within four years, the league aims to expand women's soccer in the U.S., potentially doubling its professional teams from 12 to over 50 by 2026. The NWSL also plans to create a player development pipeline through youth academies and strategic resource allocation, collaborating with U.S. Soccer to support future expansion alongside the Women's Professional Soccer League (WPSL) Pro.