Although the Leagues Cup has concluded its most recent edition, the tournament continues to generate debate among soccer fans, executives and analysts in North America. In 2026, one of the issues that remains on the table is the search for greater competitive balance between MLS and Liga MX clubs, especially as it relates to tournament venues.
MLS commissioner, Don Garber, confirmed that there is an open dialogue with Mikel Arriola, executive president of Liga MX, to analyze the possibility of implementing a reciprocal visit in future editions of the competition. This would imply that some Leagues Cup matches would be played in Mexican territory, and not exclusively in the United States, as has been the case up to now. According to statements made by journalist David Faitelson, Garber was clear in stating that the U.S. league does not rule out additional modifications to the format. “We are not closed to anything,” said Garber, making it clear that the tournament is still in a stage of adjustments and evolution.
A tournament in constant transformation
Since its creation, the Leagues Cup has undergone significant changes.
One of the most relevant was the recent modification of the competitive format.
Groups of three mixed teams (MLS and Liga MX) were eliminated, and separate zones were established by league, with four qualifiers from each advancing to the Quarterfinals.
The intention was clear:
Allowing each league to qualify its best clubs after playing three matches, generating more attractive crossings in the knockout phase.
However, the result did not favor the Mexican teams, which were eliminated from the quarterfinal round.
Recent MLS dominance
Historical performance also fuels the debate.
Although the Leagues Cup had previous editions in 2019, with Cruz Azul as champion, and in 2021, when Club León lifted the trophy, the panorama changed since the tournament became official with its new format in 2023.
Since then, no Liga MX club has won the championship or even reached the Final.
Inter Miami was crowned in the first edition of the new format by defeating Nashville.
Columbus Crew did the same against LAFC in 2024, and more recently Seattle Sounders beat Inter Miami itself.
We're not closed off to anything
Don Garber
A necessary step towards equity?
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For U.S. Hispanic fans, the possible change of venues represents a key point of discussion.
Playing in Mexico could also reduce the logistical and environmental advantage that currently favors MLS clubs.
In addition to reinforcing the binational character of the tournament.
For now, the reciprocal visit remains a proposal under analysis.
But the mere fact that it is on the table confirms that the Leagues Cup is still far from being a finished product.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.