Liga MX’s Christmas twist that few saw coming

Liga MX has already set the base calendar for the Apertura 2026 and left open the possibility of a final during the festive period at the end of the year. After the Owners’ Assembly, it was confirmed that the tournament will begin on July 16, with the title series potentially taking place close to Christmas, depending on Mexican clubs’ participation in international competitions.

The new calendar has been adjusted around the 2026 World Cup, which concludes on July 19. Just days before the tournament ends, Mexican soccer will start its next campaign, adapting its planning to coexist with the biggest event on the international calendar.

A calendar shaped by the Intercontinental Cup

According to Liga MX’s plan, the Apertura 2026 playoffs will be played from November 19 to December 13. Under normal circumstances, the final is scheduled for December 10 and 13.

However, that scenario could change. If a Mexican club qualifies for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and also reaches the Apertura 2026 final, the schedule would be adjusted immediately. In that case, the title series would move to December 24 and 27.

That change would open the door to a Christmas final, something unusual in recent Mexican soccer history and one that would extend the season into the final days of the year.

Schedule changes and other key dates

The new calendar also includes other significant adjustments. The 2025-26 Campeón de Campeones will be played on July 25, just days after the start of the tournament.

Matchday 2 will also be rescheduled for clubs involved in international competitions, reflecting the heavy workload some teams will face in the second half of the year.

There will also be a “mega” FIFA window in September and October, lasting three weeks due to the merging of international breaks.

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