CONCACAF announces 41-team League of Nations

CONCACAF confirmed Thursday the establishment of the League of Nations, a year-round tournament open to all 41 national teams in the confederation meant to "provide more quality, meaningful competition" than friendlies might offer.

President Victor Montagliani unveiled the new initiative following a year-long developmental process and called it a "watershed moment" for the CONCACAF region. The competition will be played in a three-tier league structure and features promotion and relegation, with a champion crowned at the end of each edition. The League of Nations will also provide the path to the Gold Cup, as well as a ranking to seed teams for World Cup qualification.

"By focusing on football to provide all our teams with year-round, quality competition, the League of Nations platform means everyone wins," offered Montagliani, as quoted in the organization's press release.

"This new tournament is highly beneficial to all our member associations and fans everywhere, since it provides significant opportunities to play important competitive matches with increased regularity throughout the year."

The new initiative is similar to the UEFA Nations League. Further details of CONCACAF's schedule and structure are set to be unveiled by early 2018.