MLS Next Update: Three new teams to join in 2024, FC Cincinnati, Inter Miami, Orlando City SC all set to field sides in new league

MLS NEXT expansion continues as FC Cincinnati, Inter Miami CF, Orlando City SC join the league in 2024

Major League Soccer (MLS) announced that FC Cincinnati, Inter Miami CF, and Orlando City SC will join MLS NEXT in 2024, expanding the league to 26 teams. The expansion teams will bring the total number of MLS NEXT teams to 26, following the addition of St. Louis City SC and the rebranding of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 team to Whitecaps FC in 2023.

FC Cincinnati, Inter Miami, and Orlando City bring passionate fan bases and strong youth development programs to MLS NEXT

FC Cincinnati, Inter Miami CF, and Orlando City SC are all established clubs with passionate fan bases and strong youth development programs, providing a solid foundation for their MLS NEXT teams. FC Cincinnati has a rich history in the USL Championship, winning the league title in 2018 and 2019. Inter Miami CF, owned by David Beckham, has quickly established itself as a major player in the South Florida soccer scene, while Orlando City SC has a strong track record of developing young talent, including current US men's national team player Daryl Dike. These clubs will bring their expertise and commitment to youth development to MLS NEXT, further strengthening the league. MLS NEXT is a professional development league designed to provide a pathway for young players to reach the first team. The league will play a 28-game schedule, with teams divided into two conferences. The top teams from each conference will qualify for the playoffs and compete for the MLS NEXT Cup. The addition of FC Cincinnati, Inter Miami CF, and Orlando City SC to MLS NEXT is a significant step in the growth of the league. The expansion teams will bring new markets and passionate fan bases to MLS NEXT, while also providing a valuable platform for young players to develop their skills and reach their full potential.