USL adds Weatherford Capital to BellTower investor group

The United Soccer League (USL) has added Weatherford Capital as a strategic partner, bringing the Tampa-headquartered private investment firm into the BellTower Partners-led investor group that took a stake in the organisation last year.USL said Weatherford will contribute sports expertise, a national network and operational insight as it continues to develop its multi-tier men’s and women’s ecosystem, including the USL Championship and USL League One, as well as the Gainbridge Super League.USL chief executive Alec Papadakis said: “Weatherford Capital is an ideal partner for the USL. They bring extensive experience across the sports landscape and a disciplined investment approach.“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.”The investment comes as USL advances plans for USL Premier, a new Division One men’s league targeted to launch in 2028. The league has also outlined an ambition to link its men’s divisions in an interconnected system featuring promotion and relegation.Drew Weatherford, co-founder and managing partner of Weatherford Capital, added: “We believe in the USL’s vision to build a sustainable, community-driven soccer ecosystem in the United States.“This is a long-term opportunity to support the growth of the sport while creating meaningful impact in the cities and clubs that make up the league.”BellTower’s initial investment was announced in September 2025, when founder and chief executive Kewsong Lee joined the USL board as vice chair. USL said the investor group also includes Advaya Capital alongside family offices and ultra-high net worth individuals, with Weatherford’s participation broadening the base further.Weatherford Capital was founded in 2015 by Drew, Sam and Will Weatherford and says it has more than US$1 billion in assets under management, with offices in Tampa, Dallas and Chicago. Its sports-related investments include IMG Academy, a minority stake in MLB’s Tampa Bay Rays, Collegiate Athletic Solutions and Curve Sports. Financial terms were not disclosed.