US Soccer plans new national women’s club competition

The U.S. Soccer organization unveiled plans for the Arthur M. Blank Crest Cup on Wednesday, a new competition featuring teams from both the NWSL and the USL Super League. This annual event will crown a singular national champion and will be decided through a single-elimination knockout tournament, offering a prize fund of $1.1 million and a spot in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup.

U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone emphasized the cup's potential to foster unity and attract investment in women's soccer. Named after the American football player Arthur M. Blank, the Crest Cup aims to strengthen the competitive ecosystem, promote player development, and expand opportunities for talented American players.

While the exact start date remains undecided, a launch in 2028 is anticipated, aligning with the introduction of new expansion franchises in Atlanta and Columbus. The announcement followed the U.S. Women's National Team's 2-2 draw with reigning FIFA Women's World Cup champions Spain in Pennsylvania. The USWNT will subsequently disband ahead of the CONCACAF W Championship, which could secure their qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.