Major League Soccer (MLS) has set the stage for an exciting 2025 and 2026 season with an expansion of its presence in North American cup competitions. The league recently unveiled guidelines for the participation of its 30 teams across four prestigious tournaments, highlighting a significant increase in the U.S. Open Cup and a reduction in the number of teams competing in the joint Leagues Cup with Liga MX.
In a bid to reward club performance, manage player workload, and provide every MLS team with the opportunity to showcase their talent on the continental stage, the league has carefully curated a framework for club participation in the upcoming tournaments. This move reflects MLS’s commitment to fostering a competitive environment while ensuring a fair and inclusive approach to cup competitions.
Unlike the 2024 season, where all MLS teams were involved in the Leagues Cup against Liga MX, the upcoming season will see 18 teams selected to match the total number of Mexican top-flight clubs. The selection process will be based on the top nine teams from each conference in the previous season, ensuring a fair representation of the league’s top performers.
While some teams, like the Vancouver Whitecaps, may miss out on the Leagues Cup due to their involvement in other competitions like the Concacaf Champions Cup and the Canadian Championship, new entrants like San Diego FC will bring fresh energy to the tournament. This strategic reshuffling allows for all 30 MLS teams to participate in at least one, but no more than two, North American cup competitions, enhancing the overall competitiveness of the league.
In a significant development for MLS, the number of first teams competing in the U.S. Open Cup will double from eight in 2024 to 16 in 2025. This expansion marks a positive step towards showcasing the league’s top talent in one of the oldest and most prestigious soccer tournaments in the country. Last year’s controversial decision to trim the number of participants to 8 now seems like a distant memory as MLS teams gear up for an exciting season of cup action.
Qualification for the U.S. Open Cup will be based on a team’s performance in the previous season, with the final seven of the 16 MLS first teams selected through the 2024 Supporters’ Shield table. This inclusive approach ensures that deserving teams get a chance to compete at the highest level, adding an element of unpredictability and excitement to the tournament.
In a bid to further enhance the competitive landscape, MLS will see 10 MLS Next Pro teams join the 16 senior teams in the U.S. Open Cup in 2025, adding a fresh dynamic to the tournament. This blend of experienced professionals and emerging talent promises to deliver thrilling matchups and memorable moments on the field, captivating fans and enthusiasts alike.
As MLS gears up for an action-packed season, the road to the Concacaf Champions Cup will feature 10 MLS teams competing in a tournament that runs from February 4 to June 1. Qualification parameters for this prestigious competition have been set by Concacaf, adding an extra layer of challenge and excitement for MLS teams aiming to make their mark on the international stage.
In addition to the North American cup competitions, MLS’s Seattle Sounders and Inter Miami will also participate in the Club World Cup from June 14 to July 13. As these teams prepare to represent MLS on the global stage, the league will make scheduling adjustments to accommodate their participation, further underscoring MLS’s commitment to fostering international talent and promoting the growth of soccer worldwide.
As MLS continues to evolve and expand its footprint in North American soccer, the upcoming season promises to be a thrilling journey for players, fans, and stakeholders alike. With an array of cup competitions, new entrants, and exciting matchups on the horizon, MLS is poised to deliver a season filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments on the field. Stay tuned as the action unfolds, and witness history in the making as MLS teams embark on their quest for glory in 2025 and beyond.
