MLS Next Pro is classified as part of the third tier of the United States soccer league system.

D.C. United's formerly owned-and-operated reserve team was sold to independent buyers.

[2] The inaugural match of MLS Next Pro was played on March 25, 2022, at Hermann Stadium in St. Louis.

[3][4][5] The league makes use of unique rules such as all regular season draws being decided by penalty shootouts and the addition of concussion substitutions.

[6] The league runs from spring to fall with the season kicking off in March.