2026 Season Kickoff Preview, USLPA Strike Negotiations, & New Expansion Teams

After an incredible 2025 season, we're back to preview what promises to be the most exciting year yet in the USL Championship. With two expansion teams, a revamped Open Cup format, and the shadow of the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming over everything, there's never been more to talk about. The USL Championship is HERE AGAIN — and the 2026 season might be the most interesting one yet.But there are also some big questions hanging over the league right now.Will the new Open Cup format actually benefit USL clubs?How will expansion teams like Brooklyn FC and Sporting JAX compete in their first season?Which clubs are ready to challenge the league’s heavyweights like Louisville City, Charleston Battery, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, FC Tulsa, New Mexico United?And perhaps the biggest question of all…Could labor negotiations between the league and players impact the start of the season?Follow the podcast @TalkUSL across all social media channels (Instagram, X/Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook)Support the podcast by leaving a reviewDo you want to share your thoughts on the show? Feel free to write to host Vince Galvano by emailing: [email protected]: [email protected]