In a major announcement for soccer fans, Major League Soccer (MLS) confirmed that all 27 U.S.-based teams will participate in the 2027 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. This decision marks a return to full participation after a three-season period where only select MLS clubs were involved in the tournament. The league revealed this exciting news on September 2, 2026.
From 2024 to 2026, the MLS adopted a unique approach by sending some teams to compete in the U.S. Open Cup while others took part in the Leagues Cup, a newly established tournament featuring teams from MLS and Liga MX, Mexico's premier division. This division of participation left many fans eager for a return to the traditional format where all eligible teams could compete against clubs from lower divisions.
With the upcoming 2027 edition, MLS teams will enter the tournament at the round of 64, joining a field that has already seen 155 amateur clubs register for the competition. The qualification rounds for these amateur teams are set to commence on September 12-13, 2026, paving the way for a diverse and competitive tournament.
Longtime MLS executive Nelson Rodriguez expressed enthusiasm about the tournament's return, stating, "The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup connects all leagues, clubs, and fans in a unique way. For MLS clubs, it’s a chance to write a special chapter in the tournament’s history and earn qualification to the Concacaf Champions Cup." This sentiment reflects the tournament's historical significance and its role in promoting soccer across various levels in the United States.
The changes to the tournament format come as part of broader adjustments to the MLS calendar. Starting in 2027, the league will shift to a summer schedule, culminating in playoffs during the spring. However, for the upcoming year, a unique "sprint season" will take place from February to May 2027. This alteration will allow for a more integrated schedule with the U.S. Open Cup, which will see its key rounds, including the round of 32 on September 14-15, 2027, and the final on December 15, 2027.
Additionally, U.S. Soccer has made significant changes to roster regulations, increasing matchday squads from 18 to 20 players. This adjustment aims to address player fatigue and allows MLS teams to draw from a wider pool of talent, including academy players and those contracted to their MLS NEXT Pro affiliates.
The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has a storied history, having been established in 1914 and organized by U.S. Soccer, the sport's governing body in the country. Despite occasional tensions between MLS and U.S. Soccer regarding the tournament's direction, the Open Cup remains a vital platform for clubs to showcase their talent and compete for a prestigious title. Since 2000, an MLS team has claimed the championship each year, underscoring the league's dominance in this knockout competition.
As the 2026 edition of the tournament approaches its semifinals on September 16, 2026, with matchups including the Colorado Rapids against St. Louis City and the Columbus Crew facing Orlando City, the anticipation for the 2027 U.S. Open Cup grows. With all MLS teams back in the fold, the tournament promises to deliver thrilling matchups and memorable moments for soccer enthusiasts across the nation.
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