The preliminary plans for the 2024 edition of the U.S. Open Cup have been given the green light by a subcommittee of the U.S. Soccer Federation board of directors. However, there are indications that the tournament will undergo significant changes compared to recent editions. According to a source close to the USSF, the tournament in 2024 will feature a hybrid format, with not every MLS team participating. The exact level of participation from MLS and USL clubs is still being determined, but the overall plan includes the federation making its largest financial investment ever to help with travel costs and promotion, particularly for lower-division teams.
The decision to modify the tournament format for 2024 comes amid uncertainty about the future of the U.S. Open Cup. The tournament, which dates back to 1914, faced doubts when MLS announced that its top teams would not be participating, with teams from MLS Next Pro filling in instead. MLS Commissioner Don Garber emphasized the need for a reevaluation of competition structures in the soccer industry to better manage schedules, as the league’s schedule has become increasingly congested in recent years.
MLS’ decision to withdraw its top teams from the Open Cup raised questions about compliance with the USSF’s Professional League Standards, which require teams from topflight outdoor leagues to participate in all relevant U.S. Soccer and CONCACAF competitions. The creation of the Leagues Cup in partnership with Liga MX further complicated the landscape of competitions in North American soccer.
The USL, which has been a longstanding participant in the U.S. Open Cup, expressed its support for the tournament’s preservation as an essential part of American soccer culture. While the USL did not comment on the recent developments, it signaled its commitment to collaborating with owners and U.S. Soccer to shape the future of the tournament. The USSF, in response to MLS’ request to have MLS Next Pro teams represent the league in the Open Cup, decided against the proposal based on staff recommendations.
The decision-making process regarding the U.S. Open Cup has been fraught with challenges, including disagreements among stakeholders and the need to adapt to changing circumstances. The subcommittee responsible for overseeing the 2024 edition of the tournament has been tasked with implementing necessary changes while engaging in discussions with relevant parties. This approach has caused friction with the existing U.S. Open Cup committee, leading to the resignation of its chairman, Arthur Mattson.
While the future of the U.S. Open Cup remains uncertain, the recent developments suggest a willingness to address the tournament’s challenges and adapt to the evolving landscape of American soccer. The decisions made for the 2024 edition will likely set the tone for the tournament’s long-term viability and relevance in the soccer community. Despite the obstacles faced along the way, there is a sense of cautious optimism that the U.S. Open Cup can continue to serve as a meaningful and competitive platform for clubs across the country. However, ongoing dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders will be essential in shaping a sustainable future for this historic competition.
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