USL Championship, League One seasons suspended; League Two season canceled

A suspension of USL Championship and USL League One 2020 season will continue past an original May 10 deadline, while the 2020 USL League Two season has been canceled.

There is no new date where USL Championship and USL League One officials anticipate a return. Both leagues have also extended their respective team training moratoriums through May 15. However, USL is also exploring scenarios that would allow for players to return to training facilities to conduct individual or small group work prior to May 15. Any re-opening of club facilities will be done in accordance with local and state guidelines, and with all involved adhering to strict social distancing protocols.

While a complete season remains the preferred outcome of any return to play scenario, a variety of alternative competitive formats in both the Championship and League One are also being explored as the USL continues to prioritize the health and wellness of everyone involved.

“To every USL supporter across the country, we continue to thank you for your support during these extraordinary circumstances,” said USL President Jake Edwards. “As always, your safety, health and wellness are our guiding light and we want to extend our support and best wishes to all the individuals and communities who have been impacted by COVID-19. We look forward to being back together again soon.”

While USL League Two will not play an official schedule, teams that are still active may facilitate regional exhibition schedules during the summer and fall months.

“The momentum our clubs have built in League Two across the country in recent years has been tremendous, and today’s announcement–while disappointing–will do nothing to alter that,” said USL League Two Vice President Joel Nash. “We will continue to support soccer being played when and where possible in 2020 and use this time to get even stronger as a league and look forward to returning to competitive action better than ever before in 2021.”

Photo courtesy San Diego Loyal.

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