USL Announces Tentative New CBA After Player Protests
Players protested by stopping play during matches this season.
The United Soccer League and its players association tentatively agreed to a new collective bargaining agreement after more than a year-and-a-half of negotiations that included a federal mediator and on-field protests this season. Players in the second-tier U. S.
men’s league have been competing this spring under the terms of their old CBA that expired at the end of last year. Negotiations began in August 2024, and by March 2026, the two sides were still far apart on minimum compensation, health insurance, and NIL rights. The USL and USLPA released a joint statement on Thursday night that they “have reached a tentative agreement on key terms” of the CBA, though more steps remain to cement the deal, including final ratification.
“This milestone represents a significant step forward for the league and its players, reflecting a shared commitment to the continued growth of the game and the advancement of professional standards,” the statement read. The two sides did not divulge details of the tentative agreement. The USL and USLPA did not immediately respond to requests for interviews.
After players voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike in February, they have stood still for a minute at the start of some matches this season in protest. Players also wore shirts reading “Do you stand with the players, USSF? ” before U.