MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Pro Soccer will being to play in the United Soccer League in 2026, the franchise announced on Wednesday.

That’s a year later than first announced.

“As the highest level of pro soccer in the state of Wisconsin, we know we only have one opening day, and we want to make sure we get that product, that fan experience, and our facilities right,” said Conor Caloia, Milwaukee Pro Soccer’s chief operating officer, in a press release. “The stadium and experience we will bring will be worth the wait. We’re excited for a successful kickoff season in 2026.”

The pro soccer team is expected to play at the Iron District MKE in a new 8,000-seat stadium that will be part of a new sports and entertainment district in Milwaukee.

Milwaukee Pro Soccer is still working with Cramer-Krasselt, a Milwaukee-based marketing agency, to determine a final team name, crest and branding. There are 10 names in the running, according to the franchise’s website.

Officials said leading up to the first match, the franchise will continue hosting community engagement activities.

Milwaukee Pro Soccer is slated to join the USL Championship. That championship is sanctioned by the U.S. Soccer Federation as a Division II professional league for the nation, making it the second-highest tier of professional soccer in the U.S. It has 27 clubs in markets such as Miami, San Diego, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Detroit and Indianapolis.

The USL organization has more than 200 teams across the U.S. that fall under its three professional leagues, two pre-professional leagues, a developmental academy system and a youth network.

In addition to Milwaukee Pro Soccer’s debut in the USL, the U.S. will also host the FIFA World Cup in 2026. It’s the first time the country will host it since 1994.