USL CEO Paul McDonough recently voiced his disappointment at the U.S. Soccer Federation’s handling of a dispute involving Major League Soccer (MLS) and the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The future of the historic tournament, which dates back to 1914, has been called into question since MLS announced that its first teams would not participate, and teams from MLS Next Pro would take their place.
McDonough expressed his frustration, noting that the majority of the USL’s 47 teams are looking to participate in the Open Cup. However, he revealed that the final decision on participation will be left up to individual USL teams, with the hope of providing clarity to the USSF in the coming days. McDonough criticized the handling of the situation by U.S. Soccer, stating that stronger and better communication was needed to address the issue.
The heart of the conflict between MLS and the U.S. Open Cup lies in the crowded schedule faced by MLS teams. With the addition of new competitions like the Leagues Cup, MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized the need to rethink how competitions are organized to manage the demanding schedule of professional soccer.
The U.S. Soccer Federation initially rejected MLS’ request to have its first teams sit out of the Open Cup, citing violations of professional standards. Despite this initial decision, MLS continued to push for limited participation from its clubs. While the 2024 edition of the tournament is set to proceed, the final number of participating teams is still under discussion, with talks about the future format of the tournament ongoing.
The uncertainty surrounding the participation of MLS teams in the U.S. Open Cup has had a ripple effect on USL teams. The prospect of facing MLS counterparts in the tournament represents significant revenue opportunities for lower-tier sides. However, if MLS teams opt out or reduce their involvement, the appeal of the competition diminishes.
McDonough acknowledged that some USL teams are torn between the historical significance of the tournament and the challenges posed by the current situation. There is a fear that a decline in interest from MLS teams could threaten the future of the U.S. Open Cup, with financial considerations playing a crucial role in the competition’s viability.
As discussions continue and the exact format of the 2024 U.S. Open Cup is finalized, there remains a sense of concern about the tournament’s future. The power dynamics between MLS and other soccer organizations within the U.S. have come into focus, with questions about the long-term impact on the sport in the country.
McDonough emphasized the need for collaboration and forward-thinking to ensure the growth of soccer in the U.S. While challenges persist, there is hope that a resolution can be reached to preserve the integrity and tradition of the U.S. Open Cup for years to come.