With additional developments for the United Soccer League’s proposed first-tier D1 beginning to take place, it appears that Hartford Athletic is at least seriously considering being one of the existing Championship teams to take the leap in 2028.

On Thursday, Kartik Krishnaiyer reported at Beyond the 90 that the USL will begin taking applications for the announced D1 league “in the next few weeks”. This is the first significant movement on the development of the league since it was announced in February. Krishnaiyer’s reporting also indicates that the USL D1 league is targeting a launch with 14 teams, rather than the 12 that was initially speculated.

Hartford Athletic’s previous public statements on both D1 and the addition of promotion/relegation have strongly hinted that the club would like to remain in the top tier of USL competition, but on Thursday, a source from inside the club gave the strongest indication so far, telling The Blazing Musket, “we are being asked to apply, and are considering [it]”.

All the details of the application process have not been revealed, but Krishnaiyer reported three key components: the teams will need to demonstrate that they comply with U.S. Soccer’s Pro League Standards for men’s first division clubs, they will need to present a five-year budget plan, and they will need to pay an ‘upward mobility fee’ to the league.

The first of these requirements presents possibly the most serious challenge for Hartford, as Trinity Health Stadium does not currently meet the minimum standards for a first division club, which require a minimum capacity of 15,000. The club’s last public comments on stadium expansion in May 2024 did not propose that level of expansion to THS’s current capacity of 5,500, setting a price tag of “at least” $25 million for upscale suites, covered seating, and only about a thousand extra seats, primarily along the east side.

A much more significant project would be necessary to bring THS up to first-tier standard, one that would like require more private investment than the original renovation of then-Dillon Stadium, which was largely funded with taxpayer money. Governor Lamont has pushed for “significant” private investment in stadium projects, such as the renovation of the XL Center or the proposed soccer stadium for Bridgeport MLSNP side Connecticut United and with the budget for the latter project potentially topping $100 million, club owners Hartford Sports Group will need to present a real plan to get the deal done.

Despite the potential difficulties around the stadium, the club’s amibtion seems certain: combined with the club’s ‘yes’ vote on promotion & relegation — first reported in the Blazing Musket in March — and chairman Bruce Mandell’s previous statements, it would appear that Hartford wants to be at the very top table if and when the USL D1 league comes to fruition.

The Blazing Musket will have continued coverage of USL D1 as it relates to Hartford Athletic as events unfold.

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