Leagues Cup 2026/27

The Leagues Cup operates as a bi-national professional football competition, organized jointly by Major League Soccer and Liga MX. Situated outside the domestic pyramids of the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament functions as an international club contest sanctioned by CONCACAF. It distinguishes itself from the Campeones Cup, which resolves as a single-match super cup between reigning champions of the two leagues. The primary objective for participants remains securing a position in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, with the top three finishers earning qualification spots.

The structure of the event has undergone significant revision over time. While the inaugural edition in 2019 featured a limited eight-team knockout format, subsequent years expanded to include all 48 clubs from both nations. For the 2026 season, the competition involves 36 teams: all 18 Liga MX clubs alongside the top 18 MLS sides based on their domestic standings. The contest begins with a league phase where teams play three matches before advancing to a knockout stage. The quarterfinals feature the top four teams from each league, leading to semifinals, a third-place match, and a single-leg final played at a neutral venue. Tiebreakers rely on penalty shootouts rather than away goals.

The tournament runs concurrently with the regular seasons of both member leagues, typically concluding in August or September. Unlike domestic structures, there is no promotion or relegation associated with the competition. Historical data shows varied outcomes, with champions emerging from both Mexico and the United States. As of the current season, the competition remains active following the conclusion of the 2025 edition, which saw Seattle Sounders FC secure the title. The 2026 semifinals feature four Liga MX clubs advancing from the group stage.

Distinctive features include the absence of a title sponsor in the official name, despite the presence of commercial partners. The competition does not award two-legged finals, relying instead on decisive penalty shootouts to determine winners in knockout rounds. This format ensures a clear winner without the ambiguity of aggregate scores.