In a significant shift towards enhancing operational efficiency and stakeholder satisfaction, Liga MX president Mikel Arriola announced a restructured format for the Leagues Cup set to debut in 2025. This move comes in response to persistent concerns from Mexican teams regarding the longstanding interruption the tournament imposes on the regular season. The decision reflects a broader strategic aim to create a more seamless integration of international competitions within the domestic leagues of both Mexico and the United States.
Instead of taking a month-long break as was customary in the previous editions, the revamped Leagues Cup will now incorporate mid-week matches. The adjustment aims to ensure that the regular schedules of Liga MX and Major League Soccer (MLS) are not compromised. “We just approved the new Leagues Cup format. We’re no longer going to hold camps there [in the USA]. We’ll play midweek so Mexican teams don’t struggle,” stated Arriola. The matches are slated to occur from July 29 to August 31, 2025, during the height of both leagues’ regular seasons, allowing for enhanced participation without derailing ongoing domestic competitions.
Previously, the format forced Mexican teams to travel extensively, often across the United States, while their MLS counterparts enjoyed the comfort of home matches. The 2023 and 2024 tournament editions raised eyebrows, with Mexican teams expressing frustration over their disproportionate travel burdens and the impact on their league standings. By shifting to a mid-week schedule, the redesign aims to alleviate pressure on teams and ensure competition remains equitable and engaging for fans and players alike.
All 18 MLS teams alongside Liga MX’s representatives will engage in a series of mid-week fixtures, marking a decisive shift in how both leagues collaborate. While the list of MLS participants remains pending, notable franchises like Inter Miami CF have confirmed their participation in this revised format. This enhancement is expected to elevate the competitive nature of the tournament, fostering deeper rivalries and capturing the interest of a diverse fan base.
The Leagues Cup not only serves as a competitive platform but also offers tangible rewards. The final two teams and the victor of the third-place match will secure cash prizes and spots in the subsequent Concacaf Champions Cup. With MLS currently dominating the past editions of the tournament—having produced winners like Inter Miami and Columbus Crew—the new structure could pave the way for Liga MX teams to reclaim momentum and revive their legacy in North America.
The introduction of mid-week fixtures in the Leagues Cup exemplifies the Liga MX’s response to concerns about competitive integrity and operational logistics. As the tournament evolves, it holds the potential to become a hallmark of cross-league rivalry in North America, rich with excitement and engagement for players and fans alike. The 2025 edition promises to be a game-changer, paving the way for a fresher, more dynamic approach to international matches.