From the Guardian · · 40s
MLS brings back 27 teams to US Open Cup
MLS returns all US teams to US Open Cup after three-year pause
In brief
MLS returns all US teams to US Open Cup after three-year pause MLS will allow all 27 US-based teams to compete in the US Open Cup starting next year after withdrawing them for three years. Originally reported by the Guardian.
2025 Open Cup winner
Nashville SC beat Austin FC in the final.
“Nashville SC won the 2025 Us Open Cup, beating Austin FC in the final”
Three-year pause
MLS withheld teams from US Open Cup since 2024.
“MLS had limited participation since 2024 Open Cup”
2023 withdrawal
MLS sent reserve teams to 2023 Open Cup.
“In 2023 MLS said it would pull out all of its teams from the Open Cup”
Controversy
US Soccer rejected MLS's reserve team plan.
“MLS's proposal to send reserve teams was rejected by the US Soccer Federation”
2024 return
MLS entered 16 teams in 2024 Open Cup.
“In 2024, MLS entered 16 of its 30 teams into the competition”
What to remember
MLS will allow all 27 US-based teams to compete in the US Open Cup starting next year after withdrawing them for three years.
