MLS clubs, U.S. Soccer and the U.S. Open Cup
1 September 2026
Every eligible MLS team will participate in the 2027 U.S. Open Cup, the first full league involvement since 2023. MLS clubs will enter in July at the round-of-64 stage, while the tournament final is scheduled to be played in December.
MLS had reduced participation after citing scheduling congestion and concerns over the competition, prompting significant opposition across American soccer. The revised format avoids overlap with Leagues Cup and follows recent changes including increased prize money and new broadcast arrangements.