NWSL intends to launch Division II league in 2026, with eight teams to enter new tier

The NWSL has made a radical shift in its soccer landscape, and intends to form a second division league with eight affiliate teams set to join in 2026, the league confirmed Friday.

In a system that mimics minor league baseball, the new franchises will all play each other twice in a 14-game regular season, before the top four sides take part in postseason play. They will play in the same stadiums as their affiliated Division I sides.

CBS Sports reported that the application was filed on April 1 with a six-page letter signed by NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman submitted to U.S. Soccer CEO and secretary general JT Batson. The Division II league is described as a transitional space between the college game and the professional game, one where young players can experience the "technical, tactical, and mental demands" of top flight soccer.

Eight teams will send sides to the league: Bay FC, KC Current, North Carolina Courage, NJ/NY Gotham, Orlando Pride, Racing Louisville, Seattle Reign and Washington Spirit. All teams are expected to field an affiliated second tier team within four years, including expansion franchises Denver and Boston - both of which are set to play their inaugural seasons next year.

The league confirmed its intention in a statement: "The National Women's Soccer League has formally submitted an application and supporting documentation for a new Division II league to the United States Soccer Federation. 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. 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."

The league will open play next year. Until then, the regular season continues. KC Current are top of the league after five matches, and the next round of fixtures will take place Saturday.