Major League Soccer (MLS) shocked the soccer community with its recent announcement that it will not send its first teams to the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2024. Instead, the league plans to enter teams from MLS Next Pro, its developmental league, to participate in the country’s oldest soccer tournament. This decision comes after MLS commissioner Don Garber criticized the state of the tournament, expressing his concerns about its lack of support and profile within the soccer ecosystem. While the decision has sparked controversy, it also opens up discussions about the future of the Open Cup and MLS’s role in it.
During his state of the league address before MLS Cup, Commissioner Garber elaborated on his previous comments, emphasizing the need for all stakeholders in American soccer to embrace the Open Cup. He stressed the importance of giving the tournament the support and recognition it deserves. Garber firmly believes that if the professional teams in MLS are going to participate in the oldest tournament of its kind in the country, it must be done with a collective commitment to elevating its status.
The decision by MLS has left U.S. Soccer in a state of flux. While the federation is currently reviewing the league’s choice, it remains committed to the success of the U.S. Open Cup and engaging with all stakeholders in determining the tournament’s future. The impact of MLS’s absence from the competition will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the direction of the Open Cup moving forward.
One of the primary reasons behind MLS’s decision is the negative feedback received from clubs regarding fixture congestion. With the introduction of the expanded Leagues Cup competition in collaboration with Liga MX, the absence of top-tier MLS teams in the Open Cup aims to alleviate scheduling issues. Despite the tournament’s rich history and prestige, numerous voices within MLS have expressed doubt about its continued significance. These concerns have contributed to the league’s deliberation over its involvement in the Open Cup.
MLS has reassured U.S. Soccer that it remains committed to working with the federation to evolve and elevate the Open Cup. The league’s announcement is not a permanent withdrawal but rather a pause to reevaluate its future involvement after the 2024 season. MLS recognizes the importance of the tournament and aims to shape a role that benefits everyone involved in American soccer.
The Open Cup has traditionally provided lower division teams an opportunity to compete against the best in the country, serving as a platform to showcase their talent. However, MLS’s decision poses a significant challenge to these teams, such as those in the United Soccer League (USL). The absence of MLS teams diminishes the tournament’s appeal and eliminates the chance for lower division clubs to test themselves against top-tier competition. USL President Paul McDonough expressed his surprise and concerns about MLS’s position, highlighting the need for further discussions with U.S. Soccer and USL owners.
For the winning team of the Open Cup, traditionally a spot in the Concacaf Champions League was awarded. However, with MLS’s decision, the future of this prize hangs in the balance. It remains unclear how the Champions League qualification process will change and if the absence of MLS first teams will impact the eligibility criteria. The ramifications of MLS’s choice extend beyond the Open Cup itself and have broader implications for international competitions.
MLS’s decision regarding its involvement in the Open Cup marks a turning point in the relationship between the league, U.S. Soccer, and the tournament itself. While concerns about fixture congestion and the tournament’s perceived decline in prestige have prompted this pause in participation, it is crucial for all parties to collaboratively determine a new plan that fosters growth and competition in American soccer. The next steps involve engaging with stakeholders and reflecting on the significance of the Open Cup in shaping the future of the sport in the United States.