What happened: Championship contracts will shift from 10 months to standardized 12-month terms, and every club must offer health insurance at or above an Affordable Care Act Silver Plan. The deal also establishes compensation and employment standards for USL Premier before its planned 2028 launch.
Why it matters: USL Premier will open with a labor framework already in place, while common standards will support player movement between the Championship and Premier once promotion and relegation begins. Players also gain expanded name, image and likeness rights and participation in certain merchandise and video game revenue.
By the numbers: Championship minimum base compensation is $42,000 in 2026, while USL Premier's minimum will begin at $67,500. Both figures include housing or a housing stipend, but healthcare costs are excluded; scheduled increases apply over the agreement.
What to watch: Implementation of 12-month contracts and club health plans comes next. The parties will also work toward a standardized group health plan.