U.S. Soccer’s Major Reorganization: Layoffs and Relocation Ahead of Atlanta Move
On Tuesday, U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) announced a significant reorganization that resulted in the layoff of up to 30 employees. This decision comes as the federation prepares to relocate its headquarters from Chicago to the Atlanta metro region, specifically to Fayetteville, Georgia, where a new facility is set to open in 2026. The layoffs represent approximately nine percent of the federation’s workforce, which currently stands at around 340 employees.
Departments Affected by Layoffs
The cuts impacted various departments within the organization, including marketing, sales, sporting, refereeing, and coaching. According to multiple sources within the federation who spoke to The Athletic, the layoffs were felt across the board, highlighting the widespread nature of the reorganization. While some employees were let go immediately, others were informed they would remain until April 2025, providing a transitional period for those affected.
Relocation Packages Offered
In an effort to retain talent, U.S. Soccer has offered relocation packages to many employees, inviting them to continue their employment at the new headquarters. Those who choose to relocate have been given 60 days to decide, with the federation providing various benefits to assist with the move. The relocation packages vary based on rank, with higher-ranking employees receiving more comprehensive support, including moving allowances and assistance with household goods.
Financial Context of the Layoffs
Interestingly, these layoffs come during a period of financial growth for U.S. Soccer. The federation, which operates as a non-profit, reported a substantial increase in revenue, earning $32 million in commercial revenue in the last year of its deal with Soccer United Marketing. Projections for the current financial year suggest a remarkable $110 million in revenue, marking a 243 percent increase over two years. This financial success raises questions about the necessity of the layoffs, especially given the recent appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as the highest-paid head coach for the Men’s National Team, funded by a donation from billionaire Ken Griffin.
Communication and Employee Sentiment
The layoffs were foreshadowed in an email sent by USSF CEO JT Batson on August 27, which outlined a meeting focused on relocation packages and the transition process. However, as the date approached, anxiety grew among employees, particularly when calendar invites for one-on-one meetings with supervisors began circulating. Many staff members quickly deduced that these meetings were likely to involve layoffs, leading to a tense atmosphere within the Chicago office.
Sources within the federation described the emotional toll of the situation, with one employee stating, “We pretty much knew that some of us would be ‘invited’ to Atlanta, and some of us wouldn’t make the cut.” The anticipation of layoffs created a challenging environment, with employees feeling the weight of uncertainty for weeks leading up to the announcement.
The Layoff Process
During the layoff meetings, an outside human resources agency was brought in to assist with the process. Reports indicate that employees who were terminated immediately had their belongings packed up by HR associates and were escorted out of the building, a practice often employed during large layoffs to maintain security and order. Those affected received separation letters outlining the end of their employment and details regarding severance pay, which ranged from two to four months.
Post-Layoff Communication
Following the layoffs, remaining staff members were briefed on the relocation packages during a meeting led by Batson. He acknowledged the difficulty of the day for those who were let go, emphasizing the importance of supporting colleagues during this transition. Batson also highlighted the federation’s strong financial health, assuring employees that U.S. Soccer is poised for continued success.
Temporary Facilities and Future Plans
While the new headquarters in Fayetteville will not be ready until 2026, U.S. Soccer has established a temporary facility in Atlanta, repurposing a former elementary school. Approximately 60 to 70 employees have already made the move, with plans for further expansion as the transition progresses. Additionally, some employees will have the option to work remotely, providing flexibility for those who choose not to relocate.
U.S. Soccer’s Vision for the Future
In a statement to The Athletic, U.S. Soccer expressed optimism about the transition to the new training center, emphasizing its potential to enhance support for the federation’s 27 national teams and contribute to the growth of soccer in the United States. The federation’s leadership is focused on positioning U.S. Soccer for long-term success in an evolving global landscape, despite the challenges posed by the recent layoffs and reorganization.