Leagues Cup involving MLS/Liga MX teams set for format overhaul in 2025

Changes are planned for the 2025 Leagues Cup with Liga MX president Mikel Arriola affirming that modifications would be made to the next instalment of the competition ahead of the Liga MX Apertura final in Monterrey on Sunday.

Originally introduced in 2023 as an tournament to include all clubs from both MLS and Liga MX, the competition faced resistance from Mexican clubs claiming that they were at a disadvantage having to play games in the US/Canada with MLS teams dominating the latter stages and both winners hailing (Inter Miami and Columbus) from MLS.

Format tweaks

Speaking to the media in Monterrey before Rayados faced Club America in the second leg of the 2024 Apertura final, Ariola confirmed: “We just approved the new Leagues Cup format, we’re no longer going to hold camps there (USA).”

“We’ll play midweek so Mexican teams don’t struggle, and Liga MX games will be played on the weekends,” Arriola continued.

Previously, MLS commissioner Don Garber stated: “We need more MLS versus Liga MX matches,” Garber said. “That was really the point of the Leagues Cup in the beginning … And we’re looking at modifications that will, I think, make it more focused on what it is that we’re trying to achieve, which is this great rivalry between our two leagues.”

It’s now being reported by a series of media outlets that only 18 MLS sides (along with the 18 Liga MX clubs) will participate in what appears to be a streamlined competition but no details of eligibility and the new format are known at this point.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.