U.S. Soccer announces new women’s cup competition between NWSL and USL Super League

On Wednesday, U.S. Soccer announced the formation of the Arthur M. Blank Crest Cup, which will see teams from both the NWSL and the USL Super League compete against one another to crown “a singular national champion.”

With a $1.1 million prize fund up for grabs as well as a spot in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup, the winner will be decided via a single-elimination knockout tournament.

U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone said in a statement, “Women’s soccer continues to be one of the most dynamic and inspiring forces in sport.

<

U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone believes ‘the Crest Cup will create meaningful impact by bringing people together’ -Credit:Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images

“The Crest Cup will create meaningful impact by bringing people together, attracting investment in the future of the game, and ensuring that excellence, inclusivity, and opportunity remain at the heart of women’s soccer in the United States.”

Named in honor of the owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, MLS’ Atlanta United, and soon-to-be NWSL expansion franchise Atlanta United, 84-year-old Blank said, “Soccer has an extraordinary power to bring people together, and this competition represents an important step forward for the women’s game.

“Creating a new stage for the best clubs and athletes in the country to compete at the highest level will expand opportunity, inspire the next generation and build on the tremendous momentum behind women’s soccer in the United States.

“My family, our Foundation, our associates and I are proud to continue to support U.S. Soccer’s commitment to elevating the game and creating a lasting impact for athletes, fans and communities for generations to come.”

According to U.S. Soccer, the tournament is being established with the intent of this new cup being to help “strengthen the competitive ecosystem, incentivize progressive player development, and promote investment into women’s club soccer; while also creating opportunities for talented, American players to showcase their skills in a high-stakes environment.”

To listen to the latest episode of ‘All Out Soccer’ – U.S. Soccer announces new women’s cup

Comparable to the Women’s FA Cup in England, the Coupe de France Féminine, and Spain’s Copa de la Reina, the Crest Cup’s start date has yet to be decided. However, according to ESPN, 2028 is believed to be the target.

Should the Crest Cup launch in 2028, this would tie in with the introductions of the next two expansion franchises in Atlanta and Columbus.

“Thanks to the support of Arthur M. Blank, the Crest Cup represents a defining moment for women’s soccer in this country,” U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson said. “This won’t be just about crowning a club champion, but delivering unforgettable moments for players and fans, and expanding the reach of women’s professional soccer into new communities.”

This announcement came mere hours after Emma Hayes’ U.S. Women’s National Team came back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with the reigning FIFA Women’s World Cup champions Spain in Chester, Pennsylvania. The USWNT will now disband ahead of the CONCACAF W Championship in November, which could see them qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.