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CARY, N.C. (WTVD) — North Carolina Football Club is suspending operations for next season, so in the team’s words, it can reset its men’s strategy for the future.
NCFC Chairman Steve Malik said the decision was a “deeply difficult one that came after extensive thought.”
That means that after this year’s USL Championship ends, all players will be released from their contracts and eligible to play elsewhere.
This comes as the club looks to focus its attention on competing in what’s known as USL League One, essentially a step up.
Team leadership said it believes that the Triangle can support the team as a League One squad.
To be eligible to play in that division, the league requires teams to have a stadium that seats a minimum of 15,000 fans. First Horizon Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park only seats 10,000.
In a statement, Malik said, in part: “I love North Carolina FC and have been incredibly proud to see this club succeed on the field and serve our community. I am as invested in this team emotionally as I am financially. This is not goodbye, but a step toward building an even brighter future for the sport we all love.”
The club will be reaching out to those to have already purchased 2026 season tickets.
In the meantime, NCFC plays against Rhode Island FC this Saturday in a playoff quarterfinals matchup at 7 p.m. at First Horizon Stadium.
SEE ALSO: NC Courage end regular season with win, break club’s attendance record
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DeJuan Hoggard
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