Louisville are to join the National Women's Soccer League in 2021 as part of the league's expansion.

They will be the first newcomers to the league since the Utah Royals replaced Salt Lake City in 2018.

It will be Louisville's first sports team to compete at top tier level since 1976.

Brad Estes, Louisville City FC's president, said: "This market is hungry for more pro soccer, and we know our NWSL team will be a shining star in this league.

"We are incredibly honoured to be joining NWSL. We can't wait to welcome incredible athletes and support them in their mission to win championships."

NWSL president Amanda Duffy said: "With the club's growing, passionate fanbase, coupled with its strong ownership group, and its significant investment in a soccer specific stadium in a downtown location, we are thrilled to bring the highest level of women's professional soccer to the area."

The news comes towards the end of a record-breaking season for the NWSL. Following the US World Cup win, the league's attendance increased by 23%. Portland Thorns set a new attendance record in August with just over 25,000 watching them play against the North Carolina Courage.