United Soccer League Adds Weatherford Capital As A Strategic Partner
The United Soccer League (USL), the largest and fastest-growing soccer organisation in the United States, has announced Weatherford Capital, has joined BellTower Partners’ strategic investment in the league.
Weatherford Capital, a private investment firm headquartered in Tampa, will provide deep sports expertise, a broad national network and operational insight to advance the USL’s multi-tier men’s and women’s ecosystem.
“Weatherford Capital is an ideal partner for the USL,” said Alec Papadakis, Chief Executive Officer of the United Soccer League.
“They bring extensive experience across the sports landscape and a disciplined investment approach. Through their work with leading institutions, teams and platforms, they understand both the business of sports and its impact in communities and are highly respected and admired in Tampa Bay.
“Alongside BellTower, their belief in what we’re building reinforces our vision for the league and the path we’re charting for professional soccer in the United States.”
This investment comes during a period of significant momentum for the USL. The league recently announced USL Premier as the official name of its new Division One men’s professional league, set to launch in 2028 as part of an interconnected three-tier system that will introduce promotion and relegation for the first time in American soccer or any major US professional sport.
The USL’s Gainbridge Super League continues to grow in its second season, while new teams and stadium-anchored developments are underway in markets nationwide.
“We are pleased to welcome Weatherford Capital as a partner in USL,” said Kewsong Lee, Founder and CEO of BellTower Partners and Vice Chair of the USL Board.
“As institutional capital continues to flow into sports globally, USL’s scale, structure, and long-term growth profile position it as a compelling platform at the intersection of sports, community development, and investment.
“The league’s multi-tier model and national reach make it an attractive opportunity for investors as professional soccer continues to expand in the United States.”
Weatherford Capital’s participation further broadens the league’s investor base at a time when institutional capital is accelerating around soccer in the United States, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Image: USL
