U.S. men’s national team midfielder Tyler Adams has recently expressed his support for the implementation of a promotion and relegation system within Major League Soccer (MLS). This model, commonly employed by soccer leagues globally, is seen as a way to enhance the competitive environment of the league.

Understanding Promotion and Relegation

Promotion and relegation is a system that typically allows teams to advance to higher divisions based on their performance while demoting underperforming teams to lower tiers. This concept is integral to football leagues in countries like England, Spain, and Germany but has not been adopted by MLS since its establishment in 1996.

Adams’ Perspective and Experience

Adams, who currently plays for Bournemouth in the English Premier League, shared insights on the importance of this system, highlighting its competitive benefits. “I would like to see [promotion and relegation] in MLS, in the U.S. I think that would add to the competitive nature of the league,” Adams told USA Today.

He further elaborated, stating, “It just gives everyone a lot more to play for when you know there’s a risk of going down when you don’t play well, so it adds a little bit more pressure, adds a little bit more nerves and excitement for the fans as well. So hopefully one day it’s in MLS.”

Recent Developments in U.S. Soccer

Adams’ comments follow a notable decision by owners of the United Soccer League (USL), who recently voted to implement a promotion and relegation system. This initiative marks a significant shift in U.S. soccer landscape, as it would be the first time such a system is adopted in the country.

In February, the USL announced plans to launch a Division One men’s professional league by 2027, aiming to create a competitive environment to rival MLS. This new league will operate independently while adhering to the sanctioning standards set by the U.S. Soccer Federation.

The Future of MLS and Promotion/Relegation

MLS commissioner Don Garber has indicated that the absence of promotion and relegation has contributed to substantial investments in the league, with recent expansion fees reaching up to $500 million for new clubs like San Diego FC. While he has yet to fully embrace the idea, he has not dismissed the possibility of incorporating a promotion/relegation system in some form in the future.